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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.

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

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

Pour the milk into a large pot.

Bring to a boil on the stove-top.

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

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.

Notice the whey beginning to separate.

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

Use a spotted spoon for the next step.

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

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

Tightly squeeze & place over the strainer on the bowl.

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.

Thereafter, unwrap & reveal you very own homemade paneer.

Slice or cut into cubes.

Paneer can be served as is or in a curry.

Refrigerate & use within 2 weeks.

It can also be frozen & used within 6 months.

Follow along with Denisiya's step-by-step video guide for Homemade Paneer.
Expert kitchen guidance and troubleshooting for making the best 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.
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.
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.

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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