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Palak “Paneer” with Pressed Fresh Ricotta

Palak "Paneer" with Pressed Fresh Ricotta
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Palak “Paneer” with Pressed Fresh Ricotta is a comforting and vibrant Indian-inspired dish that swaps traditional paneer for creamy pressed fresh ricotta. This recipe delivers a fresh flavor explosion with nutritious spinach, aromatic spices, and a smooth, luscious texture. Perfect for a quick, wholesome meal under 40 minutes, it is sure to impress with its creamy richness and wholesome goodness.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables & Fresh Herbs

  • 300g Fresh Spinach
  • 2 Green Chilies
  • 2 medium Tomatoes, finely chopped
  • Fresh Coriander (Cilantro), for garnish

Dairy & Cream

  • 200g Fresh Ricotta Cheese, pressed and cubed
  • 50ml Heavy Cream or Cashew Cream

Spices & Seasonings

  • 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
  • 1 Bay Leaf
  • 1 tbsp Ginger-Garlic Paste
  • 1 tsp Garam Masala
  • Salt, to taste

Oils & Fats

  • 1 tbsp Oil or Ghee

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Spinach: Thoroughly wash fresh spinach leaves to remove any grit, then blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes. Immediately transfer to ice water to keep the vibrant green color. Drain and blend into a smooth puree, setting aside for later use.
  2. Make the Pressed Fresh Ricotta Cubes: Wrap fresh ricotta cheese in a clean kitchen cloth and place a weight on top to press out excess moisture for about 30 minutes. Once firm, cut the ricotta into bite-sized cubes and lightly pan-fry in a teaspoon of oil until golden on the edges to add texture.
  3. Cook the Base Masala: Heat oil or ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan. Add cumin seeds and bay leaf, letting them sizzle. Then add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cooking until fragrant. Stir in finely chopped tomatoes, cooking down until soft and oil starts to separate from the masala.
  4. Combine Spinach Puree and Spices: Pour the smooth spinach puree into the cooked masala. Add salt and garam masala, stirring well. Simmer the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.
  5. Add Cream and Ricotta Cubes: Reduce the heat and gently stir in the cream to create a silky texture. Carefully fold in the pressed fresh ricotta cubes, cooking on low heat for another 5 minutes to warm through and let the cheese absorb the delicious flavors.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped coriander leaves on top and serve hot with basmati rice or warm naan for a truly satisfying meal experience.

Notes

  • Press Ricotta Well: Removing moisture prevents the ricotta from crumbling and helps it hold shape when cooked.
  • Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh leaves blend smoother and offer better color compared to frozen spinach.
  • Simmer Gently: Low heat keeps the ricotta soft and creamy without breaking apart.
  • Balance Spice: Start mild and adjust green chilies or garam masala gradually to suit your preference.
  • Puree Thoroughly: A smooth spinach puree enhances the dish’s texture and appearance beautifully.

Nutrition

Keywords: Palak Paneer, Spinach Curry, Indian Vegetarian, Pressed Ricotta, Creamy Spinach Dish, Indian Comfort Food, Gluten Free Indian Recipe

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/palak-paneer-with-pressed-fresh-ricotta/