How to Make Palak Paneer Kachoris Recipe

Crispy Spinach Kachori | Palak Paneer Kachoris Recipe

Palak Paneer Kachoris are a delightful Indian snack that combines the richness of spinach (palak) and the creaminess of paneer, wrapped in a crispy golden shell. These kachoris are the perfect blend of flavor and texture, making them a favorite among all ages. Whether you’re planning to serve them at a party, enjoy them for tea time, or simply indulge in a satisfying snack, this recipe is sure to become a hit.

In this article, we will guide you through every step to make the perfect Palak Paneer Kachoris at home. From the ingredients to the method, we’ve got you covered with detailed instructions. So, let’s dive right in and get started with this mouthwatering snack recipe!

Serves: 4-6 people

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour (maida)

• 2 tablespoons of semolina (sooji)

• 1 tablespoon of oil or ghee

• 1 teaspoon of carom seeds (ajwain)

• A pinch of salt

• Water (as required to knead the dough)

For the Filling:

• 1 ½ cups of fresh spinach (palak), washed and chopped

• 1 cup of paneer (Indian cottage cheese), crumbled or finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon of oil

• 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 1 teaspoon of ginger-garlic paste

• 1 teaspoon of garam masala

• ½ teaspoon of red chili powder

• ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder

• Salt to taste

• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice

• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

For Frying:

• Oil for deep frying

Step-by-Step Guide to Make Palak Paneer Kachoris

1. Prepare the Dough for Kachoris

Start by making the dough for the kachoris. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, semolina, salt, and carom seeds. Add the oil or ghee and rub the mixture between your palms to ensure it’s evenly mixed. Slowly add water and knead the dough until it’s soft and smooth, but not too sticky. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 20-30 minutes. Resting the dough is crucial as it helps the kachoris puff up during frying.

2. Cook the Palak Paneer Filling

While the dough is resting, it’s time to prepare the filling. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter. Once the cumin seeds release their aroma, add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.

Next, add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another 2 minutes until the raw smell disappears. Now, add the chopped spinach (palak) to the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the spinach wilts and reduces in size.

Once the spinach is cooked, add the crumbled paneer to the mixture, followed by the garam masala, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix everything together well. Add the lemon juice to enhance the flavor and cook the filling for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let the filling cool to room temperature.

3. Shape the Kachoris

After the dough has rested and the filling has cooled, it’s time to shape the kachoris. Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball). Roll each ball into a small disc using a rolling pin.

Place a spoonful of the palak paneer filling in the center of the disc. Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the filling and pinch them together to form a pouch. Gently flatten the stuffed dough ball and roll it into a disc shape once again, being careful not to let the filling spill out.

4. Heat Oil for Frying

In a deep frying pan, heat enough oil to submerge the kachoris. The oil should be medium-hot; if the oil is too hot, the kachoris will cook too quickly on the outside and remain raw inside.

To check if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of dough into the oil. If it rises to the surface immediately, the oil is at the right temperature.

5. Fry the Palak Paneer Kachoris

Carefully slide the prepared kachoris into the hot oil, one at a time. Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary. Fry the kachoris until they are golden brown and crispy, turning them occasionally for even cooking. This should take about 4-6 minutes per kachori.

Once fried, remove the kachoris from the oil and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

Your crispy and delicious Palak Paneer Kachoris are now ready to be served. Garnish them with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve these warm with tamarind chutney or green coriander chutney for a delightful experience.

Tips for Making Perfect Palak Paneer Kachoris

• Dough Consistency: Ensure the dough is neither too stiff nor too soft. It should be smooth and elastic for perfect kachoris.

• Filling Texture: Be sure to remove excess water from the spinach after cooking, as too much moisture in the filling can make the kachoris soggy.

• Frying Temperature: Fry the kachoris on medium heat to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy without burning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Palak Paneer Kachoris in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and filling a day ahead and refrigerate them. When ready to fry, let the dough come to room temperature before shaping the kachoris.

2. Can I bake the kachoris instead of frying them?

Although frying gives the kachoris their signature crispiness, you can bake them at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes or until golden brown if you prefer a healthier option.

3. Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used in place of fresh spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before cooking.

4. How can I store leftover Palak Paneer Kachoris?

Store the leftover kachoris in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate them and reheat in an oven or air fryer for a crispy texture.

5. Can I use a different filling for the kachoris?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different fillings like potatoes, lentils, or other vegetables if you prefer a variation from the palak-paneer filling.

Stay tuned for more exciting recipes and tips! Feel free to share your experiences with this recipe in the comments section below. We would love to hear from you and answer any questions you may have.

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