What is paneer, cottage cheese, chenna?

Also Known as

Cottage cheese, chenna

A vegetarian delight, paneer also known as cottage cheese is a soft, white, crumbly cheese which is used widely in continental, oriental and Indian cuisines. Its simple, fresh versatile flavour makes it a delicious addition to any recipe. Paneer can be made at home by boiling whole milk.

An ingredient with acidic properties is added to coagulate the milk. The whey water formed is either discarded or used in various preparations and the cheese is harvested. This cheese is called chenna. The chenna is then pressed to form a block of cheese. This cheese block is called paneer. Paneer is a fresh cheese and is never aged. Since it contains no rennet, it is perfectly safe for vegetarians to have.

How to select paneer, cottage cheese, chenna

• Paneer is readily available in grocery stores in small and large packets, in cube form.

• Confirm the manufacturing date for maximum softness and freshness.

• It is also available in local dairy outlets, where it is freshly made everyday and sold as required. When buying paneer ensure that it is completely white in colour and that it is soft to touch, doesnt sport black spots, or is yellow in colour.

Culinary Uses of paneer, cottage cheese, chenna in Indian Cooking

Paneer, also known as Indian cottage cheese, is a versatile ingredient widely used in Indian cooking. Here are some of its common uses:   

• Curries and Gravies:

  • Paneer is a star ingredient in many rich and creamy curries like Palak Paneer (spinach and paneer), Paneer Butter Masala, and Shahi Paneer. These dishes feature paneer cubes simmered in flavorful gravies made with tomatoes, onions, cream, and spices.   

     

  • It adds a substantial, protein-rich element to vegetarian curries.   

     

• Appetizers and Snacks:
  • Paneer Tikka: Cubes of paneer marinated in yogurt and spices, then grilled or baked.   

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• Paneer rolls or wraps: paneer and vegetables are rolled into a roti or other flat bread.   

   

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• Parathas:

  • Paneer can be used as a filling for stuffed vegetables like bell peppers or potatoes.   

     

  • It's also used to stuff parathas (Indian flatbread).   

     

• Desserts:
  • Paneer is a key ingredient in Indian sweets like Rasmalai, Rasgulla, and Sandesh.

  • It's used to make paneer kheer (rice pudding).

     

• Rice Dishes:

  • Paneer is sometimes added to vegetable biryanis or pulaos to enhance the flavor and nutritional value.   

     

• Salads and Raitas:
  • Paneer can be crumbled and added to salads for a protein boost.   

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• It can also be added to raitas (yogurt-based side dishes).   

   

• Quick stir fries:

  • Paneer is a great addition to stir fries because it holds its shape, and absorbs the flavors of the sauces it is cooked with.   

     

• Sandwiches:

  • Paneer can be added to vegetarian sandwiches.

     

How to store paneer, cottage cheese, chenna

• Store the paneer in enough water in a container. The water has to be changed every 2 days, after which it can be refrigerated again.

• It stays fresh for a week when stored under these conditions.

• If it turns sour or has lost its softness, then place it in warm water for about 5 minutes before using.

Nutritional Information of Paneer, Cottage Cheese

One cup chopped Paneer.

RDA stands for Recommended Daily Allowance.

Nutritional Information for 1 cup chopped Paneer is 144 grams. The values of Paneer are taken with it being made from Buffalo milk.

420 Calories

19.3 grams of Protein

11.37 grams of Carbs

33.1 grams of Fat

691 g of Calcium = 115% of RDA (about 600 mg)

400 mg of Phosphorus : 66.6% of RDA (about 600 mg for adult)

33.1 g of Fat = 50% of RDA (about 66 g)

19.3 g of Protein = 35% of RDA ( about 55 g)

527 mcg of Vitamin A = 11% of RDA (about 4,800 mcg)

Health benefits of paneer, cottage cheese, chenna

Paneer contains high quality protein and calcium which aids in weight loss. Since paneer is low in carbs and high in protein it gets digested slowly and hence good for diabetes. Potassium in paneer helps to reduce the effect of high sodium, by lowering blood pressure and contraction of blood vessels, resulting in improved heart health and reduced risk of heart attack. Great for weight loss and read the interesting article on is paneer good for you? Low fat paneer is has all the same nutrients as full-fat paneer, but it is minus the fat.