Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of India with our mind-blowing Palak Paneer Biryani! 🌿🧀 Imagine a dish that combines the creamy richness of paneer, the nutritious goodness of spinach, and the aromatic magic of traditional biryani - all in one spectacular meal that will make your family and friends beg for seconds. This isn't just another recipe; it's a flavor explosion that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience that will revolutionize your home cooking forever!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 200 grams paneer
- 2 cups spinach (palak)
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 2 tablespoons biryani masala
- Salt to taste
- 3 cups water
- Oil for cooking
Instructions
- Wash the basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in water for 20 minutes to ensure fluffy grains.
- Cut the paneer into small cubes and lightly fry them in a pan with a little oil until they turn golden brown. Set aside.
- Blanch the spinach leaves in hot water for 2-3 minutes, then immediately transfer to ice-cold water to retain the vibrant green color. Drain and blend into a smooth puree.
- Heat oil in a large biryani pot or heavy-bottomed pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add sliced onions and sauté until they turn translucent and golden brown.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.
- Stir in the biryani masala and salt, cooking for another 2-3 minutes to release the aromatic spices.
- Add the spinach puree and mix well, creating a rich green base for the biryani.
- Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pan, gently mixing with the spinach mixture.
- Pour in water and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer.
- Gently fold in the fried paneer cubes, distributing them evenly throughout the rice.
- Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes until the rice is fully cooked and fluffy.
- Let the biryani rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot, garnished with fresh coriander leaves if desired.
Tips
- Rice Perfection: Always rinse your basmati rice thoroughly and soak it before cooking to ensure each grain is perfectly fluffy and separate.
- Paneer Technique: Lightly fry paneer cubes to give them a golden exterior while keeping the inside soft and creamy. This adds an extra layer of texture to your biryani.
- Spinach Secret: Blanch spinach quickly and shock in ice water to maintain its vibrant green color and preserve maximum nutrients.
- Spice Balance: Toast your biryani masala for a few extra seconds to release its full aromatic potential before adding to the dish.
- Low and Slow: Cook the final biryani on the lowest heat setting with a tight-fitting lid to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
- Resting Magic: Always let your biryani rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld and the rice to absorb any remaining moisture.Pro Tip: For an extra luxurious touch, garnish with fresh coriander leaves and a dollop of cooling raita on the side! 🌟
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 540kcal
Carbohydrates: 64g
Protein: 29g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 40mg
