Indian CuisineIndian FoodDurban Indian

Homemade Paneer

Make authentic Homemade Paneer with this foolproof recipe. Packed with rich traditional flavor, step-by-step photos, and cooking tips by Denisiya on EatMee Recipes.

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By DenisiyaPublished on November 20, 2017
Homemade Paneer
⏱️
Prep Time15 mins
🍳
Cook Time33 mins
⌛
Total Time48 mins
🍽️
ServingsServes 4
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This Indian Recipe Makes ± 25 Centimeter Diameter Circle

This Homemade Paneer recipe is simple to prepare. Paneer is a typically a fresh, homemade cheese which is very common in South Asia, particularly in Indian, Pakistani, Afghan, Nepali, Sri Lankan, & Bangladeshi foods. It is an un-aged, non-softening, acid-set, cheese or curd cheese made by souring warmed milk with lemon juice, vinegar, or some other nourishment acids. Its moist & crumbly form is known as chhena in eastern India & in Bangladesh.

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Ingredients

Scale:
Base Yield: Serves 4
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Step-by-Step Instructions

18 Steps
  1. Step 1

    Firstly, you will need a cheesecloth or a new handkerchief. I did not have cheesecloth on hand so I opted for the handkerchief instead.

    Step 1 visual guide
  2. Step 2

    Next, place a strainer over a bowl & cover the strainer with the cheesecloth or handkerchief & set aside.

    Step 2 visual guide
  3. Step 3

    Pour the milk into a large pot.

    Step 3 visual guide
  4. Step 4

    Bring to a boil on the stove-top.

    Step 4 visual guide
  5. Step 5

    When the milk is at a boil, add in two tablespoons of the vinegar or lemon juice & stir. I have used vinegar.

    Step 5 visual guide
  6. Step 6

    After a minute, add in another two tablespoons of vinegar or lemon juice & stir. Thereafter, add the remaining two tablespoons of vinegar or lemon juice & stir.

    Step 6 visual guide
  7. Step 7

    Notice the whey beginning to separate.

    Step 7 visual guide
  8. Step 8

    Remove the pot from the heat & allow to stand for 3 minutes.

    Step 8 visual guide
  9. Step 9

    Use a spotted spoon for the next step.

    Step 9 visual guide
  10. Step 10

    Scoop the whey or curd & then place over the cheesecloth or handkerchief that was over the bowl.

    Step 10 visual guide
  11. Step 11

    Next, wrap the whey or curd with the cheesecloth or handkerchief & press draining off any excess liquid.

    Step 11 visual guide
  12. Step 12

    Tightly squeeze & place over the strainer on the bowl.

    Step 12 visual guide
  13. Step 13

    Place a heavy pot or stone over the wrapped up curd. This will ensure that all the liquid is drained & allow it to form a firm shape. Allow to stand for 30 minutes to an hour.

    Step 13 visual guide
  14. Step 14

    Thereafter, unwrap & reveal you very own homemade paneer.

    Step 14 visual guide
  15. Step 15

    Slice or cut into cubes.

    Step 15 visual guide
  16. Step 16

    Paneer can be served as is or in a curry.

    Step 16 visual guide
  17. Step 17

    Refrigerate & use within 2 weeks.

    Step 17 visual guide
  18. Step 18

    It can also be frozen & used within 6 months.

    Step 18 visual guide
Video Tutorial

Watch How It's Made

Follow along with Denisiya's step-by-step video guide for Homemade Paneer.

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Frequently Asked Questions & Cooking Tips

Expert kitchen guidance and troubleshooting for making the best Homemade Paneer

Can I adjust the spice and chilli levels in Homemade Paneer?

Absolutely! You can easily tailor the heat by increasing or reducing the chili powder and fresh chilies to suit your family’s palate without compromising the authentic flavor profile.

Can I freeze leftovers of this dish?

Yes, you can freeze Homemade Paneer in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2 to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating.

How do I reheat leftovers for best flavor?

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water, or in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Denisiya - Founder & Chef at EatMee Recipes
About the Creator

Meet Denisiya

Hi, I'm Denisiya! Food lover, recipe developer, and founder of EatMee Recipes. I specialize in authentic South African Durban Indian cuisine, comforting curries, and modern Instant Pot adaptations. Every recipe on this site is tested in my personal kitchen to ensure you get mouth-watering, foolproof results every time.

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