Cheese story
What is Paneer?
A fresh Indian cheese that holds its shape in curries and grilling.
Origin
India-wide, India
Milk
cow or buffalo
Board role
Fresh / bright
Cheese profile
Country
India
Region
India-wide
Milk type
cow or buffalo
Texture
fresh acid-set
Rind
none
Ageing
fresh
Vegetarian
Usually vegetarian-friendly
Milk treatment
usually yes
Flavour profile: mild, milky, firm
Origin, protection and character
Paneer comes from India, especially India-wide. Its character comes from the balance of milk, texture, rind, ageing and local serving traditions.
Protected status
None
Typical ageing
fresh
How to serve Paneer
curries, grilling, snacks, sweets
Good food matches
spinach
peas
spices
flatbread
Serving tip
Take it out of the fridge before serving so the texture softens and the flavour opens up. Softer cheeses usually need less time than hard aged cheeses.
Buying tip
Look for clean aroma, good texture and a style that matches the board: fresh and bright, soft and creamy, hard and nutty, blue and salty, or bold and washed-rind.
