Masala Paneer (Desi Style)

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Preeti Kalia (@hobbi_espassion)

A flavorful Indian snack made with paneer and spices, perfect for a protein-rich meal.

Prep Time
10min
Cook Time
20min
Total Time
30min
Masala Paneer (Desi Style) recipe

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = approximately 187.5 g of paneer)

Paneer

  • 2L
    milk
  • 1tbsp
    vinegar (white)
  • 1tsp
    salt

Spices and Herbs

  • 1tbsp
    coriander seeds
  • 1tbsp
    cumin seeds
  • 4clove
    cloves
  • 7
    black peppercorns
  • 1/2tsp
    red chilli powder
  • 1tbsp
    coriander leaves, chopped
  • 1tbsp
    mint leaves, chopped

For Toasting

  • 1tbsp
    butter

How to make Masala Paneer (Desi Style)

Prepare Paneer

  1. Roast coriander seeds, cumin seeds, cloves, and black peppercorns.

  2. Grind the roasted spices into a coarse powder.

  3. Boil the milk in a large pot.

  4. Add vinegar and the spice mix to the boiling milk and stir until the milk curdles.

    Step 1.1: Add vinegar and the spice mix to the boiling milk and stir until the milk curdles
  5. Strain the curdled milk through a muslin cloth to separate the paneer.

  6. Rinse the paneer with cold water to remove any vinegar taste.

  7. Keep the paneer under weight for 3-4 hours to set.

    Step 1.1: Keep the paneer under weight for 3-4 hours to set
  8. Toast the paneer in a pan with butter until golden brown, if desired.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

517.5kcal (25.87%)

Protein

26.0g (52%)

Carbs

28.0g (10.18%)

Sugars

16.5g (33%)

Healthy Fat

10.5g

Unhealthy Fat

18.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Ensure the milk is fully boiled before adding vinegar for better curdling.

  2. Rinsing the paneer with cold water helps to firm it up and remove any residual vinegar taste.

FAQS

  1. How do I make Masala Paneer from scratch using milk?

    To make Masala Paneer from scratch, start by boiling 2 liters of milk in a large pot. Once it reaches a boil, add 1 tablespoon of vinegar and stir until the milk curdles. Strain the curdled milk through a muslin cloth to separate the paneer, rinse it with cold water, and then press it under weight for 3-4 hours to set.

  2. What are some good dietary substitutions for making Masala Paneer?

    If you're looking for dietary substitutions, you can use lemon juice instead of vinegar to curdle the milk. For a vegan version, consider using plant-based milk like almond or soy milk, along with a vegan coagulant like lemon juice or apple cider vinegar.

  3. How should I store leftover Masala Paneer?

    To store leftover Masala Paneer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the paneer, which can last for up to 2 months.

  4. What dishes pair well with Masala Paneer?

    Masala Paneer pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. You can serve it alongside naan or roti for a complete meal, or enjoy it as a snack with mint chutney. It also complements rice dishes like biryani or pulao.

  5. What is the cooking process for achieving the perfect golden-brown Masala Paneer?

    To achieve the perfect golden-brown Masala Paneer, after pressing and setting the paneer, cut it into cubes and toast it in a pan with 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Cook until each side is golden brown, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes per side.

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Preeti Kalia

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