Back to Recipes
Palak Paneer with Spiced Cauliflower Rice
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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

Want to add this to your meal plan?

Sign up for free to save recipes, create meal plans, and track your nutrition.