SPINACH AND PANEER CURRY WITH MILLET RECIPE
Spinach and Paneer Curry with Millet is a delightful Indian dish that combines nutritious spinach, creamy paneer (Indian cottage cheese), and wholesome millet grains. This vegetarian recipe is not only delicious but also rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. The creamy curry sauce pairs perfectly with the nutty flavor of millet, making it a satisfying and wholesome meal option.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 cup millet
- 200 grams paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cubed
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1 green chili, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnishing
For the Mint Yogurt Raita:
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh mint leaves
- Salt to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
Cook the millet: Rinse the millet under cold water and drain. In a saucepan, add 2 cups of water and the rinsed millet. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the millet is cooked and fluffy. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the mint yogurt raita: In a bowl, mix the yogurt, finely chopped mint leaves, and salt. Stir well and refrigerate until serving.
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Then, add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chili to the pan. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
Add the pureed tomatoes to the pan and cook until the oil separates from the masala.
Add the spices – coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Stir well to combine.
Add the chopped spinach leaves to the pan and cook until they wilt down.
Add the cubed paneer to the pan and gently mix it with the spinach and masala. Cook for a few minutes until the paneer is heated through.
Season with salt according to taste and mix well.
Serve the Spinach and Paneer Curry hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves, alongside cooked millet and mint yogurt raita.
WEIGHT LOSS TIPS
- Opt for low-fat paneer or tofu instead of regular paneer to reduce the calorie content of the dish.
- Use minimal oil for cooking the curry and sauté the onions and spices in a non-stick pan to reduce the overall fat intake.
- Choose whole grain millet over white rice for a healthier option that is rich in fiber and nutrients.
- Increase the proportion of spinach in the curry to boost the nutritional value and add more fiber.
- Be mindful of portion sizes and avoid overeating. Serve yourself a balanced portion and savor each bite mindfully.
- Regular physical activity, such as walking or yoga, can complement your weight loss efforts when combined with a healthy diet.
NUTRITION VALUE
- Calories: XXX
- Protein: XXX grams
- Carbohydrates: XXX grams
- Fat: XXX grams
- Fiber: XXX grams
