Wash the spinach leaves thoroughly. Soak basmati rice in water for 1 hour. Drain and spread on a wide plate.

Bring plenty of water to boil. Add a pinch of salt and 1/2 teaspoon sugar. Add the washed spinach leaves and blanch for 5 minutes.

Drain the leaves and take in a mixer jar. Add peeled ginger,garlic and green chilies. Grind to smooth puree.

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a kadai. Add bay leaf, cardamom and cinnamon stick. Fry for 2-3 minutes.

Add finely chopped onions and fry till color changes slightly.

Add the spinach puree ad mix well.

Cook for 10-12 minutes keeping the pan open.

Add drained rice and mix well. Saute for 2-3 minutes.

Add 2 1/4 cup water. Season with salt. Let the water boil.

Once the water starts to boil, close the pan and maintain low flame.

Cook till the rice is completely done. Takes around 10 minutes

While the pulao is cooking, fry 1/2 cup paneer cubes in little oil.

Once the pulao is done add the fried paneer cubes. toss very gently.

Serve palak pulao with curd or raita.