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breakfastvegetarianIndian
Palak Paneer with Spiced Cauliflower Rice
20 min 4 servings
A hearty North Indian breakfast featuring protein-rich paneer in a vibrant spinach sauce, paired with low-GI cauliflower rice spiced for balance. This meal delivers essential nutrients like iron, folate, and complete proteins while maintaining a minimal glycemic impact. Perfect for a nourishing start to the day.
Ingredients
- 800 g fresh spinach leaves
- 400 g paneer (cottage cheese)
- 4 units small onion
- 8 cloves garlic cloves
- 4 tsp ginger paste
- 4 tbsp ghee
- 2 tsp cumin seeds
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- 1 large cauliflower head
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 large head cauliflower rice
Instructions
- 1Wash and roughly chop spinach leaves, cube paneer, chop onions, mince garlic, and grate cauliflower into rice-like texture using a box grater or food processor. Set all ingredients aside in separate bowls for efficient cooking.
- 2Heat ghee in a large pan over medium heat (about 160°C), add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add chopped onions, minced garlic, and ginger paste, sautéing for 3 minutes until onions turn translucent and golden.
- 3Add chopped spinach to the pan in batches, stirring over medium heat (160°C) for 3-4 minutes until fully wilted and bright green. Avoid overcooking to preserve nutrients and color.
- 4In a separate large skillet, heat ghee over medium heat (160°C), add grated cauliflower, turmeric, and garam masala, stirring to coat evenly. Sauté for 8-10 minutes until tender but not mushy, with a slight golden hue.
- 5Transfer the wilted spinach mixture to a blender or food processor and pulse into a coarse puree, retaining some texture. Work in batches if needed, ensuring not to over-blend into a smooth paste.
- 6Return the spinach puree to the original pan over low heat (120°C), add cubed paneer, and simmer for 3-4 minutes until paneer softens slightly and absorbs flavors. Season with salt and pepper, stirring gently to avoid breaking the paneer.
- 7Check cauliflower rice for tenderness; it should be soft but retain a slight bite, with a golden color from turmeric. If needed, sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes on medium heat (160°C), then remove from heat.
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