Authentic Saag Paneer: Creamy Spinach & Cheese Delight
- Steve Holloway
- Sep 14
- 4 min read
Introduction
Dive into the vibrant flavours of India with this Saag Paneer recipe—a beloved classic that pairs tender cubes of paneer cheese with a rich, spiced spinach sauce. Perfectly creamy and brimming with aromatic spices, this dish brings comfort and nutrition to your table in every bite. Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or eager to try something new, Saag Paneer is a satisfying vegetarian meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Serve it with warm naan or fluffy basmati rice for a truly unforgettable dining experience!
Cuisine -Indian - Side Dish- Serves 2
Cooking times,
Prep time is approximately 15 minutes (including chopping vegetables and cubing the paneer),
Cooking time is about 25 minutes so a total time of around 40 minutes.
Recipe Difficulty Level: Beginner-Friendly
This Saag Paneer recipe is Beginner - Friendly — with clear steps and simple ingredients, it’s perfect for home cooks of any experience level looking to enjoy a classic Indian dish.
Special Equipment:
- Blender or food processor (for pureeing the spinach)
- Large skillet or nonstick pan
Heat Level: Mild - Medium
Mild – Medium (adjustable by reducing or adding green chilies and chili powder to your taste
Nutritional values
Per serving (assuming 4 servings):
Calories: 300
Protein: 14g
Fat: 21g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 400mg
*Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes used.*
A little History
Saag Paneer is a beloved North Indian dish with roots in the Punjab region, where "saag" refers to leafy greens and "paneer" is a fresh, non-melting cheese. Traditionally, saag is made with a blend of spinach and other greens like mustard leaves, especially during the winter months when these vegetables are abundant. Paneer, introduced to Indian cuisine through Persian and Afghan influences, became a popular vegetarian protein source. Over time, Saag Paneer evolved into a household favourite, celebrated for its creamy texture, vibrant flavour, and nutritious profile, making it a staple in Indian homes and restaurants around the world.
Easy Recipe for Saag Paneer
Ingredients
400g (14 oz) paneer, cut into cubes
500g (1 lb) fresh spinach (or use a mix of spinach and mustard greens)
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 medium tomatoes, chopped
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, grated
2 green chilies, chopped (optional)
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp chili powder
3 tbsp cream or yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)
2 tbsp oil or ghee
Salt, to taste
How to make Saag Paneer
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1. Blanch the spinach in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, drain, and transfer to ice water. Blend into a smooth puree and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat oil or ghee over medium heat. Then add the paneer and cook until the paneer has slightly browned then remove the paneer and put to one side. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
3. Add onions and sauté until golden. Stir in the garlic, ginger, and green chilies, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add tomatoes, turmeric, coriander, chili powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften and the oil separates.
5. Stir in the spinach puree and cook for 5-7 minutes. Add garam masala and cream or yogurt, if using.
6. Gently fold in the paneer cubes and simmer for 5 more minutes, allowing the flavours to meld.
7. Serve hot with basmati rice or naan.
Cooks tips
For best results with Saag Paneer, use fresh spinach for vibrant colour and flavour, but frozen spinach works in a pinch. Lightly pan-fry the paneer cubes before adding them to the sauce for a golden crust and richer taste. To retain the bright green color of the saag, avoid overcooking after blending. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a splash of cream or yogurt at the end. Finally, always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving, and let the saag rest for a few minutes to allow the flavours to meld together.
Goes well with:
Frequently asked questions for Saag Paneer
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach works well and saves time—just thaw and squeeze out excess water before using.
What can I substitute for paneer?
Firm tofu makes a great substitute for paneer, especially for a vegan version.
How do I prevent paneer from becoming rubbery?
Avoid overcooking paneer; add it towards the end and let it heat through gently.
Is Saag Paneer spicy?
The heat level is mild to medium, but you can adjust the chilies and chili powder to your preference.
Can I make Saag Paneer ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well—store in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat gently before serving.
What should I serve with Saag Paneer?
Saag Paneer pairs beautifully with basmati rice, naan, or roti.
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Conclusion
Enjoy the comforting flavours and wholesome goodness of this easy Saag Paneer, a dish that brings the vibrant taste of India right into your kitchen. Whether you’re sharing it with family or impressing friends, this recipe is sure to become a favourite. Don’t forget to serve it with warm naan or fluffy rice for a complete, satisfying meal—happy cooking from Stevie’s Curry Magic!
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Cheers Steve.
"Absolutely delicious! The recipe was easy to follow and the flavors were spot on. My family loved it and we'll definitely make it again."