Craving a burst of flavor that transports you straight to the heart of India? Look no further than this delightful Instant Pot Saag Paneer! This creamy, vibrant dish featuring fresh spinach and soft paneer is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome meal that can be whipped up in just 25 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at your next dinner party, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into the rich, aromatic world of Indian cuisine and discover how easy it is to create this restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh spinach
- 1 cup paneer, cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp oil
Instructions
- Wash the spinach thoroughly and drain excess water. Blanch the spinach in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then immediately transfer to ice water to retain bright green color.
- Drain the blanched spinach and blend into a smooth puree using a food processor. Set aside.
- Set Instant Pot to Sauté mode and heat oil. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and golden brown, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Incorporate minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
- Pour in pureed tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Add the spinach puree, garam masala, and salt. Mix well and ensure even distribution of spices.
- Add cubed paneer and gently fold into the spinach mixture.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set to pressure cook on high for 5 minutes.
- Once cooking completes, do a quick release of pressure. Open lid and give a final gentle stir.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or naan bread, garnishing with additional paneer cubes if desired.
Tips
- Fresh Spinach is Key: For the best flavor and nutrition, use fresh spinach instead of frozen. Make sure to wash it thoroughly to remove any grit.
- Blanching Technique: Blanching the spinach helps retain its vibrant green color and enhances the overall presentation of the dish. Don’t skip the ice bath!
- Customize Your Spice Level: If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red chili powder or chopped green chilies along with the garlic and ginger.
- Paneer Alternatives: If you can’t find paneer, you can substitute it with tofu for a vegan option. Just ensure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture before adding it to the dish.
- Serving Suggestions: This Saag Paneer pairs beautifully with steamed basmati rice, naan, or roti. Don’t forget to garnish with extra paneer cubes or a drizzle of cream for an extra touch of indulgence!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
