Working from home has given me the chance to enjoy more home-cooked meals with my parents. When I express my craving for Indian cuisine, friends often suggest ordering from restaurants. While I appreciate restaurant fare, it’s not what I think of when I yearn for Indian flavors.
For me, Indian food means my mom’s cooking—true home food.
Restaurant Indian dishes often remind me of celebrations, with chafing dishes keeping food warm, rich flavors, and that distinctive tikka masala aroma. It’s comforting, and leftovers taste even better the next day.
However, home food is where the real charm lies. It’s less rich and doesn’t usually include garlic naan unless we’re craving something special. My mom’s charred roti and vibrant spices make every meal special. I dare say her cooking is healthy, and it’s what I think of when I crave Indian flavors.
It’s unfortunate that many “cultural” dishes are labeled unhealthy based on restaurant experiences. I enjoy rich ingredients too, but many dishes we see at restaurants are actually everyday meals, just presented differently.
One of my all-time favorites is saag paneer. Most people envision a creamy, butter-laden spinach dish filled with paneer, perfect for dipping naan. That’s a lovely thought.
My mom’s saag paneer recipe is a staple that’s so delicious you forget you’re eating spinach. It’s a nutritious, spiced dish served with charred whole wheat roti. Who thought I’d describe Indian food this way? It’s just plain delicious.
While at home, I started paying attention to my mom’s cooking so I could replicate her recipe later. She doesn’t measure ingredients, so I had to observe closely.
This dish is incredibly simple to prepare. You begin with thawed frozen spinach, boil it, blend it until creamy, then add spices and my mom’s secret ingredient for a lighter touch: sour cream. Mix it all, add paneer cubes, and you have a delightful plate of greens that’ll make you love spinach.
There are countless versions online that might include onions, ginger, or different spices. Yet, this straightforward recipe remains my favorite. It’s uncomplicated and cozy, reminding me of home. Every auntie has her own take on this dish, and I encourage you to adjust the recipe to fit your taste!
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cooking Time
15 minutes
Categories
Ingredients
- 2 16oz bags thawed frozen chopped spinach (no need to squeeze out excess water!)
- 1 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup tomato masala*
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1 1/2 tsp chaat masala
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups cubed paneer (feel free to add more!)
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine thawed spinach and water. Bring to a boil and cook for 7-8 minutes. If it seems dry, add an extra 1/4 cup of water as needed.
- Remove from heat. Using an immersion blender or standard blender, blend the spinach to your preferred consistency. I like a bit of texture, so I avoid blending too much!
- Add tomato masala, salt, garam masala, chaat masala, and turmeric. Mix well and adjust spices to taste.
- Incorporate the sour cream and stir until combined. Adjust salt to your liking.
- Add the paneer cubes and stir to coat.
- Return the saag paneer to low heat and warm through.
- Serve warm alongside rice or roti. Enjoy!
* I keep tomato masala on hand for making dishes like this. Here’s a great recipe for it—just halve or quarter it for your needs.
Comments (3)
- Kristin says: January 31, 2021 at 6:56 pm
I made this recipe tonight and absolutely loved it! So easy and perfect for a cozy night in. Don’t skip on making your own tomato masala – it’s worth it!
Reply - Melissa says: February 3, 2021 at 6:09 pm
For some reason, I cannot get your link to work for the tomato masala.
Reply
Thank you! - tastyrecipesinhindi says: August 18, 2021 at 6:33 am
Looking really delicious and mouthwatering, thanks for the recipe!
Reply
