Trader Joe's-Style Palak Paneer

Experience bold, creamy flavors with our Trader Joe's-style Palak Paneer using whole-food, organic ingredients for a cleaner version without industrial seed oils or refined sugars.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups organic frozen chopped spinach
  • 8 oz organic paneer cheese, cubed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small green chili, slit
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 cup organic coconut milk
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt to taste

Clean swaps

How we upgrade the restaurant version with better ingredients.

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olive oil
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What you'll need

Instructions

  1. Sauté onions in olive oil until soft and translucent.
  2. Add garlic and green chili; sauté for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Season with ground cumin and turmeric powder. Cook for another minute.
  4. Stir in spinach, bay leaf, and enough water to cover ingredients. Simmer until spinach is wilted.
  5. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Blend to a smooth puree without over-processing.
  6. In a separate pan, sauté paneer in remaining olive oil until golden and crispy.
  7. Return spinach mixture to the pan and stir gently to combine with the heated paneer. Add coconut milk and lime juice, adjusting seasoning.
  8. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. Serve hot.

FAQ

Is this Trader Joe's-Style Palak Paneer gluten-free?

Yes, it is naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead?

Absolutely! Prepare the dish and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

What can I substitute for coconut milk?

You can substitute coconut cream or full-fat canned coconut milk, adjusting quantities if necessary.

Why is this healthier than the restaurant version?

This version uses whole-food, organic ingredients without industrial seed oils or refined sugars for a cleaner and more natural taste.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Certainly! Just make sure to sauté it first until wilted to reduce the water content.

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