Experience the cosy cousin of palak paneer with the added benefits of amaranth paneer, a winter special saag. Amaranth, also known as chaulai or rajgira saag, is a seasonal superfood since it's full of iron, vitamin C, and antioxidants. The dish becomes velvety smooth without being heavy when paneer is added and cooked in a coconut-milk gravy. When paired with steaming rice or hot rotis, this meal creates an inviting and comforting atmosphere, perfect for a chilly winter night.
Thoroughly blanch the amaranth in boiling salted water for 20 to 30 seconds, or until it barely wilts. Chill in icy water. Use a gentle squeeze and chop roughly.
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Step 2: Make the Aromatic Paste
To make a coarse paste, combine the ginger, garlic, turmeric, green chillies, onion, and 1 teaspoon of salt in a food processor or mortar and pestle.
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Step 3: Build Masala
Melt the ghee in a skillet over medium and add cumin seeds. When the scent begins to fill the air, blend in the aromatic paste. Cook, stirring occasionally, over medium heat, until the mixture becomes brown and the raw aroma passes. Lastly, stir in the black pepper and garam masala.
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Step 4: Add Milk and Amaranth
Slowly pour in the coconut milk while mixing. Toss in the chopped amaranth. The curry should thicken to a spoonable consistency, not soupy, so cook it over low heat until it does.
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Step 5: Prepare the Paneer and Finish
Sauté the paneer lightly in a skillet on one side just to get a golden crust. Add the paneer to the saag by gently folding it in. Add some more salt if needed and serve hot.