Palak Paneer
South Asian Dubai • Dubai
About Palak Paneer
Cottage cheese in a creamy spinach gravy.
How to Make Palak Paneer (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Palak Paneer, a beloved vegetarian dish, has found a unique place in Dubai’s vibrant food scene. In Dubai, where diverse cultures blend seamlessly, Palak Paneer is often enjoyed alongside Emirati classics and Levantine mezze at bustling hotel restaurants, chic business lunch venues, and even as part of Ramadan iftar spreads. This dish features tender cubes of paneer (halal cheese) simmered in a flavorful, spiced spinach sauce, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. Dubai’s health-conscious residents appreciate Palak Paneer for its hearty dose of leafy greens and vegetarian protein, making it a staple at beach clubs and family gatherings. The taste is a harmonious blend of earthy spinach, warming spices, and creamy paneer, making it both comforting and nourishing. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely lunch at a seafront restaurant or sharing a festive meal during Ramadan suhoor, Palak Paneer brings together the best of Dubai’s multicultural dining traditions with a focus on wholesome, everyday eating.
Ingredients(for 1 medium bowl per person, served with whole-wheat roti or brown rice)
- 4 cups Fresh spinach leaves (palak) (finely chopped)
- 200 grams Paneer (halal cheese) (cubed)
- 1 medium Onion (finely chopped)
- 1 medium Tomato (pureed)
- 1 inch Fresh ginger (grated)
- 3 Garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 Green chili (slit, optional for spice) - optional
- 1 tsp Cumin seeds (jeera)
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
- 2 tbsp Low-fat yogurt (for creaminess) - optional
- 1 tbsp Olive oil (or canola oil)
- to taste Salt
- for garnish Fresh coriander (optional) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Wash spinach thoroughly. Blanch in boiling water for 2 minutes, then immediately transfer to ice water to preserve color and nutrients.
5 minutes
Use ice water to keep the spinach bright green.
- 2
Drain spinach and blend to a smooth puree. Set aside.
3 minutes
A hand blender works well for a creamy texture.
- 3
Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Sauté onions until golden.
5 minutes
Cook onions on medium heat for a sweet, mellow flavor.
- 4
Add garlic, ginger, and green chili (if using). Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
2 minutes
Do not burn garlic to avoid bitterness.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Palak Paneer recipe is a healthy choice because it uses minimal oil, includes a high proportion of leafy greens, and swaps cream for low-fat yogurt. It’s suitable for halal, vegetarian, and nutrient-focused diets, making it ideal for daily meals, business lunches, and Ramadan iftar. The balanced macros and vitamins support a wholesome lifestyle in Dubai’s fast-paced urban environment.
Palak Paneer is packed with nutrients, offering a rich source of vegetarian protein from paneer and a boost of iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants from spinach. The dish is low in saturated fat thanks to olive oil and optional low-fat yogurt. Spinach provides dietary fiber, calcium, and folate, while paneer contributes essential amino acids. Together, they support muscle repair, immunity, and energy metabolism.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Always blanch and ice-bath spinach for vibrant color.
- 💡Tip 2: Use fresh, soft paneer for the creamiest texture.
- 💡Tip 3: Add yogurt at the end and lower heat to avoid splitting.
Storage & Serving
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving; add a splash of water if sauce thickens.
Best served: Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 160.0 kcal |
| Protein | 8.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 9.0 g |
| Total Fat | 11.0 g |
| Fiber | 3.0 g |
Cultural Notes
Palak Paneer is a DubaiCalorie priority food for Dubai dining, UAE portions and local lifestyle tracking.
