What To Order: India - Palak Paneer

Don't let the color deter you...

At first sight, palak paneer may not garner much interest from anyone new to Indian cuisine. The strong green color may even cause hesitation in a would-be enthusiast, much as guacamole's greenish hue might deter someone who has (sadly) never tasted its avocado goodness. Yet, for those willing to push past appearances, palak paneer is all flavor.

Palak paneer is a simple-but-tasty vegetarian dish originating in India's Punjab region. Made of pureed spinach (which accounts for the rich green color) and an Indian curd cheese called paneer, palak paneer is a thin curry dipping sauce usually eaten with naan or rice that can help curb the burning in your mouth after a plate full of spicy Indian curry.

Indian naan spread with palak paneer

The pureed spinach is mixed with mild curry spices and the non-aged farmer's cheese, and the result is savory goodness.

Palak paneer's watery consistency and rich spinach, curry, and paneer flavors make it a great dipping sauce and a nice addition to any Indian meal.