Palak Paneer Puff Pastries

Mon, 7 October 2024

INGREDIENTS FOR THE FILLING: 

• 250 grams paneer, crumbled or finely grated 

• 2 tablespoons oil, ghee, or butter 

• 250 grams spinach leaves, finely chopped 

• 3 tablespoons coriander leaves, finely chopped 

• 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional for kids) 

• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 

• ½ tablespoon red chili flakes or powder (optional) 

• 1 teaspoon garam masala powder 

• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste) 

• 2 teaspoons lemon juice 

FOR THE PUFF PASTRY: 

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour 

• ¼ cup salted butter, finely chopped 

• ½ teaspoon salt 

• Cold water (as needed) 

METHOD: 

1. Prepare the Puff Pastry (if making from scratch): 

• In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. 

• Gradually add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, and knead into a smooth, firm dough. 

• Wrap the dough in cling film and refrigerate for a couple of hours. 

1. Make the Paneer and Spinach Filling: 

• Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add the garlic, ginger, and onions, and sauté for a few seconds until fragrant. 

• Add the chopped spinach and cook until all the moisture evaporates. 

• Stir in the crumbled paneer, coriander, green chilies, garam masala, red chili flakes, and salt. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes. 

• Add the lemon juice and adjust seasoning as needed. Set the filling aside to cool. 

1. Assemble the Puff Pastries: 

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). 

• If using homemade dough, roll it out on a floured surface into a large square, about ¼ inch thick. Cut the dough into smaller squares. 

• Grease a muffin tin or baking tray. Place each dough square into the muffin tin cavities or lay flat on the baking tray. 

• Spoon the paneer and spinach filling into the center of each dough square. 

• Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling and pinch the corners to seal. 

1. Bake the Pastries: 

• Place the pastries in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. 

• Once done, remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. 

1. Serve: 

• Serve the warm Palak Paneer Puff Pastries as a snack, lunch, or party appetizer. 

• Enjoy these deliciously crispy puffs filled with rich, spiced paneer and spinach!