Discover the magic of making your own Paneer with this easy Instant Pot recipe! In just 20 minutes, you can transform simple ingredients into delicious, creamy Indian soft cheese that will elevate your favorite dishes. Whether you're adding it to curries, salads, or enjoying it fresh, homemade paneer is not only tastier but also healthier than store-bought options. Ready to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills? Let’s dive into the delightful world of Instant Pot Paneer!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 liter whole milk
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Pour the entire 1 liter of whole milk into the Instant Pot inner pot. Ensure the milk is fresh and at room temperature for best results.
- Select the "Yogurt" function on your Instant Pot and press "Boil" to heat the milk until it reaches a rolling boil, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Once the milk reaches a full boil, turn off the Instant Pot and add 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice gradually while stirring gently. The milk will begin to curdle and separate into white curds and greenish whey.
- Let the milk sit undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to allow complete separation of curds and whey.
- Line a colander with clean cheesecloth or a muslin cloth and place it over a large bowl to catch the whey.
- Carefully pour the curdled milk mixture into the lined colander, allowing the whey to drain completely.
- Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the collected curds and gently mix.
- Gather the edges of the cheesecloth and squeeze out any excess liquid, then twist the cloth to form a tight bundle.
- Place a heavy object like a plate with weights on top of the bundled cheese to press and shape it for 15-20 minutes.
- Unwrap the paneer and cut into cubes. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro if desired.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Milk: For the best texture and flavor, use fresh whole milk. Avoid ultra-pasteurized milk as it may not curdle properly.
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your milk is at room temperature before starting. This helps it boil evenly and curdle effectively.
- Stir Gently: When adding lemon juice, stir gently to avoid breaking the curds too much. This will help you achieve a nice, soft texture.
- Don’t Rush the Curdling: Allow the milk to sit undisturbed for 2-3 minutes after adding lemon juice. This waiting period is crucial for proper curd formation.
- Pressing Paneer: The longer you press the paneer, the firmer it will be. Adjust the pressing time based on your preference for texture.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add herbs or spices to the curds before pressing for a unique flavor twist!
- Storage: Store your paneer in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3-4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 162kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 25mg
