Paneer: Easy Recipes, Storage Tips, and Health Benefits

If you love Indian food, paneer is probably a regular guest on your plate. It’s a fresh cheese that soaks up spices, stays firm when cooked, and works in everything from curries to salads. Below you’ll find quick ways to cook it, how to keep it fresh, and why it’s good for you.

Quick Paneer Recipes

First, try a classic Paneer Bhurji. Crumble a block of paneer, toss it in a pan with a little oil, mustard seeds, chopped onions, tomatoes, and a pinch of turmeric. Cook for five minutes, add green chilies and cilantro, and you have a protein‑packed scramble ready in minutes.

For a snack, make Paneer Tikka. Cut paneer into cubes, marinate in yogurt, ginger‑garlic paste, red chili powder, and a dash of lemon juice for 30 minutes. Skewer the cubes with bell peppers, grill or bake until golden. Serve with mint chutney for a tasty bite.

If you prefer something cool, try a Paneer Salad. Cube paneer and mix with cucumber, tomatoes, onions, and a squeeze of lime. Sprinkle chaat masala for a tangy kick. It’s a fast, light meal that keeps you full.

Storing Paneer the Right Way

Fresh paneer lasts longer when you keep it in water. Place the cheese block in a bowl, cover with cold water, and store it in the fridge. Change the water daily, and it stays soft for up to a week.

If you bought paneer in a vacuum‑packed packet, you can keep it unopened in the fridge for 3‑4 days. Once opened, transfer it to an airtight container with a little water to prevent drying out.

For longer storage, freeze paneer. Cut it into cubes, spread them on a tray, freeze solid, then bag them. Frozen paneer is best used in cooked dishes because the texture changes slightly after thawing.

When you’re ready to cook, pat the paneer dry with a paper towel. Dry pieces brown better and don’t release excess water into the sauce.

Paneer also packs a decent amount of protein, calcium, and healthy fats. One 100‑gram serving gives you about 14 grams of protein and 200 mg of calcium, supporting muscle health and bone strength. It’s low in carbs, making it a solid choice for low‑carb meals.

Overall, paneer is versatile, easy to store, and nutritious. Keep these tips handy, and you’ll be able to enjoy paneer in a variety of dishes without any fuss.