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)
FOR THE PUFF PASTRY:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup salted butter, finely chopped
METHOD:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!