Palak Paneer Stuffed Paratha

This palak paneer stuffed paratha recipe is so delicious and nutritious – a perfect weekend breakfast option for the family. Palak paneer stuffed paratha is a delicious South Asian flatbread that is stuffed with cooked spinach (palak) and paneer (cottage cheese).

The stuffing is a mixture of finely chopped spinach, crumbled paneer, and aromatic spices such as cumin. This is then stuffed inside a whole wheat dough. The paratha is then cooked on a griddle or large flat pan “tawa” until golden brown..

You can serve this with yogurt, pickle or a side of curry. I made this as a weekend brunch with eggs and a chutney sauce. It’s so wholesome and filling. If you don’t have paneer to hand, you can use any other cheese such as ricotta – which is what I used in the photo below.

Do parathas have to be round?

Don’t worry if your palak paneer stuffed parathas aren’t round! I clearly didn’t achieve the perfect round parathas that most Pakistanis strive for – haha! It’s the taste that counts. It was so yum!

Is the palak paneer filling healthy?

Absolutely! Spinach is renowned for its numerous health benefits. Here are some key benefits of including spinach in your diet:

1. Rich in Nutrients: Spinach is packed with essential vitamins and minerals including vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C, folate, iron, and manganese. These nutrients play a vital role in maintaining overall health and wellbeing.
2. Promotes Healthy Bones: Spinach is an excellent source of vitamin K, which is crucial for bone health. It helps in the production of a protein called osteocalcin, which is necessary for maintaining bone density and strength.
3. Supports Heart Health: The nitrates found in spinach help relax blood vessels, reduce blood pressure, and improve blood flow. Additionally, the presence of antioxidants, such as vitamin C and beta-carotene, helps prevent oxidative stress and reduce the risk of heart diseases.
4. Aids Digestion: Spinach is fiber-rich, which aids in digestion supports the growth of healthy gut bacteria.
5. Boosts Immunity: Being packed with vitamin C, spinach helps strengthen the immune system, supporting the body’s defence against infections and diseases.
6. Provides Antioxidant Protection: Spinach contains several antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene that help protect the body against damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants play a role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and inflammation.

Paneer, also known as cottage cheese, can be a healthy addition to your diet when consumed in moderation. It offers several health benefits:

1. Protein Source: Paneer is an excellent source of protein, making it beneficial for muscle growth and repair.
2. Bone Health: Paneer is rich in calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
3. Weight Management: Paneer is a good source of protein and healthy fats, which can help you feel fuller for longer, leading to reduced calorie intake and aiding in weight management.
4. Blood Sugar Control: Paneer has a low glycemic index, meaning it has a minimal impact on blood sugar levels. This makes it a suitable option for individuals with diabetes or those looking to manage their blood sugar levels.
5. Digestive Health: Paneer contains probiotics that promote a healthy gut by improving digestion and enhancing the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestines.
6. Vitamins and Minerals: Paneer is a good source of various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, riboflavin, selenium, and zinc, which support overall health and wellbeing.

Why you should use wholewheat flour in parathas

Wholewheat flour offers several benefits when used in parathas:

1. Higher Nutritional Value: Wholewheat flour retains the bran and germ of the wheat grain, making it more nutritious compared to refined flour. It contains higher amounts of fiber, protein, healthy fats, vitamins (such as vitamin E and B vitamins), minerals (including magnesium, zinc, and iron), and phytochemicals.
2. Improved Digestion: The high fiber content of wholewheat flour aids in promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. It also helps to keep you feeling fuller for longer, reducing overeating and supporting healthy digestion.
3. Stable Blood Sugar Levels: Wholewheat flour has a lower glycemic index compared to refined flour. This means it causes a slower and steadier rise in blood sugar levels, making it a favorable option for individuals with diabetes or those looking to manage their blood sugar levels.
4. Heart Health: The fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats present in wholewheat flour contribute to heart health. The fiber helps to reduce cholesterol levels, while antioxidants protect against oxidative stress and inflammation. Furthermore, the healthy fats can help maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
5. Weight Management: Wholewheat flour has a higher fiber content compared to refined flour, which can aid in weight management. The fiber promotes satiety, helping you feel full for longer periods and reducing the likelihood of overeating.
6. Sustained Energy: The complex carbohydrates in wholewheat flour provide a steady release of energy, keeping you energized throughout the day and preventing energy crashes.
7. Enhanced Taste and Texture: Wholewheat flour adds a nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture to parathas, which many people find enjoyable and satisfying.

Overall, using wholewheat flour in parathas not only adds nutritional value but also contributes to better digestion, stable blood sugar levels, heart health, weight management, sustained energy, and an enhanced taste experience.