Cheese (Paneer

You can make simple homemade cheese using just 3 basic ingredients! Here’s a classic method for making paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or a basic farmer’s cheese.

🧀 Homemade Cheese (Paneer/Farmer’s Cheese)

Ingredients:

1. Milk – 1 liter (preferably whole milk)

2. Acid – 2–3 tablespoons of lemon juice or white vinegar

3. Salt – ½ to 1 teaspoon (optional, depending on taste)

✅ Instructions:

1. Boil the Milk

   • Pour the milk into a large pot and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

2. Add Acid

   • Once it reaches a boil, turn off the heat.

   • Slowly stir in lemon juice or vinegar a spoonful at a time while gently stirring.

   • You’ll see the milk curdle and separate into curds and whey.

3. Strain the Curds

   • Place a cheesecloth or clean kitchen towel over a strainer and pour the mixture through to collect the curds.

   • Rinse the curds under cold water to remove any acidic taste.

4. Drain & Press

   • Gather the cloth and squeeze out excess water.

   • For paneer: place a heavy object on top and press for 30–60 minutes to form a firm block.

   • For soft cheese: you can skip pressing or press lightly.

5. Salt (Optional)

   • Mix in salt if desired, either before pressing or after draining.

🔸 Uses:

• Crumble in salads

• Slice and grill (for paneer)

• Use in sandwiches, pasta, or curries