The difference between cheese and paneer

Both cheese and paneer are commonly used in cuisines around the world, and both may seem very similar at first. However, there are some variations between the two that make a big difference in terms of flavor, texture, and culinary uses.

What is the difference between cheese and paneer? The difference between the two products is the way they are made, and the ingredients that are added to the cheese or paneer to give it flavor and texture.

Read on to learn about the differences between cheese and paneer, nutritional benefits, cooking recommendations, and related questions.

The difference between cheese and paneer

To better understand the difference, here’s a breakdown of each:

Cheese

Cheese is always made from the milk of an animal, such as a cow, a buffalo, a goat, etc. It is made through the acidification process.  The bacteria in the milk cause this acidification, which gives the cheese its unique flavor and texture.

Cheese can be made in many different ways, with many different flavors and textures.  There are more than 300 different varieties of cheese around the world.

Cheese has a considerably high concentration of calories and fat, so it is not ideal for those who suffer from heart problems.

Cheese also has a higher protein content than paneer, making it suitable for people who want to gain muscle and fat. With more calcium than paneer, cheese is also great for the bones.

When the cheese is made, it goes through an emulsion process, which allows it to stay fresh for longer. Cheese can last up to 6 months in the freezer and has a longer life than paneer.

If you want to learn how to make your own cheese, you can check out this article we wrote about cheese vs. butter. We include a video on how to make cheese at home.

Paneer

Paneer is made with milk, much like cheese, but is heated to over 200 degrees Fahrenheit when some acid is added to coagulate the milk . The most commonly used types of acids are lemon juice and vinegar.

Paneer has a considerably low concentration of fat and calories, making it good for those who want to watch their weight, or those who suffer from heart disease.

When making the paneer it is not emulsified, so it is a very perishable product. It cannot be stored for a long time and should be consumed normally within 3 days.

Also known as farmer’s cheese, paneer does not melt. It is the most popular Indian cheese, and there are also a few different forms of paneer.

Paneer is also considered cottage cheese in more western countries.  In Asia, it is often served with masala items, and as a garnish for fried foods such as naan and chapatti.

If you want to learn how to make paneer, watch this video from Rajshri Food:

Health benefits of paneer and cheese

Although outwardly similar, there is a substantial health difference between cheese and paneer.

Paneer is low in calories and fat , making it a healthier choice for the more calorie-conscious, while cheese is high in fat and calories, making it not always suitable for who watch the weight

Those who have heart problems are advised to consume paneer instead of cheese, and those who have low fat content in their body are advised to consume more cheese.

Nutritional benefits of paneer and cheese

Paneer and cheese have very different nutritional contents. Cheese is high in protein and is a good option for those who want to gain muscle and weight.

The calcium in cheese is also beneficial for those who want to strengthen their bones.  Paneer helps reduce cholesterol levels in the body, making it a good option for those who suffer from heart problems.

How is cheese used in cooking?

There are so many types of cheese, it’s hard to list all the ways it can be used in the kitchen.

For example, blue cheese, which has a high mold content that contributes to its strong flavor, can be eaten neat on a cracker as an appetizer, or it could be used to create a creamy blue cheese sauce for pasta or steak.

Cheddar cheese, which is probably the most widely used and popular type of cheese, can also be used in many different ways. It can be layered on a sandwich, topped and melted on a pizza, sizzled on a burger, or processed and eaten like a cheese straw.

Cheese can be used in many different ways, and in many homes it is a daily staple item used in the kitchen for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

How is paneer used in cooking?

Paneer is almost always cooked, although it can be eaten raw.  Most of the time, paneer is incorporated into dishes to give them a smooth and creamy texture; however, the paneer does not melt.

Paneer can also be used as a filling for a samosa, or chopped and added to onions and cooked vegetables.

It’s an incredibly versatile ingredient, and there are so many different ways to incorporate it into cooking, both traditionally Asian, and now Western cooking as well.

Most Western countries are familiar with paneer in the form of cottage cheese, often used as a spread or dip, but cooking with paneer is definitely growing in popularity, thanks to the rise of Indian cuisine in the West.

Are the paneer and cheese vegetarian?

For many vegetarians, finding ingredients to use in vegetarian diets can be very difficult.

Luckily paneer is a vegetarian item. It is an unsalted white cheese that is made from cow’s milk and does not contain any other animal by-products. It fits into the meatless diet of many, especially those living in India.

Cheese, on the other hand, is a bit more complicated. You might think that cheese is completely vegetarian, since the only animal ingredient is milk, but this is far from the truth.

With so many types of cheese, you have to be very careful to ensure that you choose a cheese that is truly vegetarian, as many are not.

For example, Parmesan cheese is not vegetarian. The milk coagulates to produce curds and whey (solid and liquid), and this is achieved by adding rennet to the cheese. Rennet comes from the stomach of newborn calves that are slaughtered.

There are alternatives, such as plant-based rennet or GMO rennet, but these can be hard to find. Rennet from young calves is the best to use, and many cheesemakers would never consider using anything else.

So if you are a vegetarian, it is safer to stick with paneer as you can be sure that it is acceptable on a vegetarian diet.

Related questions

What cheese can be used as a substitute for paneer?

If you eat paneer for vegetarian reasons, it can be difficult to find a suitable substitute. One option is to make your own cheese at home, which isn’t too difficult if you have the right ingredients and basic tools.

If not, you can use tofu, cottage cheese, or cottage cheese to replace the paneer . The ricotta and cottage cheese are vegetarian, while the tofu is vegan.

Is paneer similar to halloumi?

Paneer and halloumi are good substitutes for each other in meals, however, they are not very similar in composition. Paneer has high acidity, while halloumi has almost no acid. Both high and low acidity help prevent the cheese from melting.

The fact that the cheese does not melt makes it popular as a main ingredient in a dish, as a substitute for meat and other vegetables.

What cheese is healthier?

There are a few types of cheese that are healthy, high in calcium, protein, and other beneficial nutrients. These healthy cheeses are mozzarella, blue cheese, feta, cottage cheese, ricotta, Parmesan, Swiss, and cheddar.

The advantage of this is that they all have unique flavors and textures, so they can be enjoyed in many different tastes, and in many different ways.

Which milk is best for making paneer?

Many people decide to make their own paneer at home, and it’s a pretty straightforward process. The choice of milk to make paneer is very important so that it comes out the best possible, with the best texture and flavor.

The best milk for making paneer is fresh whole milk . It can be cow, goat or buffalo. The best batches of homemade paneer are made from unhomogenized raw milk.

It is best to avoid using skimmed milk as it will result in a smaller batch of paneer, with a finer texture and duller taste.

cheese vs. Paneer

Cheese and paneer may look very similar to each other, but they are actually very different. From the way they are made to their ingredients, health benefits, and nutritional content, the two products deserve to be in their own categories.

Paneer is best used in cooked dishes and is suitable for those who want to avoid the extra calories, and cheese is used raw or in cooked meals and is high in calories and fat.  Paneer has a short shelf life, while cheese can last quite a bit longer.

Both cheese and paneer can be used to make exceptionally delicious meals, which is one thing they have in common.