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Liza Debevec's avatar

I knew palak paneer but not saag paneer. And I think if anyone frowns upon canned food, well, they should know that it is easy to speak from a privileged place where all your food is flown into your lap. I continue to be impressed by your creative approach to cooking on a small sail boat. Super impressive every time and those views you share at the end of the post are always amazing.

Liza Debevec's avatar

I looked it up and I though that palak means when it’s only spinach and saag means when there’s other things mixed to it. But I’m no expert and I may have found the wrong information..

Nica Waters's avatar

I may well have it backwards! I often feel like I ought to apologize, or at least use “inspired-by” or “-adjacent” when offering up my versions of any kind of non-American food. I love having all the inspiration from different cuisines.

Wendy Hawkes's avatar

I'm no expert but I use them interchangeably; I thought it was based on whether the cuisine was Northern Indian or Southern Indian. Like a regional difference. Either way, Palak aka Saag Paneer is my favorite Indian dish (had it for dinner just the other night from a street stall in Thailand, believe it or not). Thanks for the recipe...now I'll have to try making my own!

Nica Waters's avatar

I’d have to imagine you can get at least tofu where you are (well, hmm, maybe not?)

Nica Waters's avatar

I gather “palak” means greens in general, while “saag” is spinach in particular? You’re very right on the canned food comment, that being able to choose other options means you both have access to said options and the ability to afford them. We are privileged indeed.

Jim Yares's avatar

Great post, Nica! If you are in Huahine, the best cheeseburger in the South Pacific is at Izzy's. Give her our regards!

Nica Waters's avatar

debating if we can get there, Jim! Thank you for the rec!

TMFritz. On The Human Spectrum's avatar

That's a great find- canned spinach for saag paneer- great idea. I'm not on a sailboat, but i'm happy to find a pantry staple that might taste fresh (refreshed?) when used in the right recipe:) + Gorgeous photos. (oh- and the Carrefour label drew my attention and French print as I'm currently living in France:)

Nica Waters's avatar

And in France the freezers are small, so you can save that space for other more vital items!