The Difference Between Paneer and Cheese

Panner and Cheese both of them are two different types of food made from milk. The primary difference between the two is the method in which they are made. Panner also known as cottage cheese or Indian cheese is made by separating solid and liquid of milk. Cheese is made by adding rennet to milk, which causes the milk to coagulate and form curds. Both are made by separating solid and liquid of milk but the difference lies in the way they are processed.

Paneer is typically made fresh and consumed while cheese is kept for aging which helps it to develop its flavor. Paneer has a softer texture and milder flavor than most cheeses. Cheese has high fat and calories than paneer. Cheese can last up to 6 months in the freezer and has a longer life span than paneer does. One thing both of them have in common is that they both can be used to make exceptionally delicious meals.

How Paneer is made

Paneer is an important food in south Asian countries and is considered a prominent part of the cuisine. It is vegetarian and meat-free making it a very popular ingredient for curries. It is made out of curdled milk. You can easily make it at home by boiling milk and adding to it a spoonful of vinegar or lemon juice. You sieve the curdled milk and make a ball of paneer.

How Cheese is made

Cheese is made from milk by coagulating milk through the acidification process. Bacteria in the milk cause this acidification, which gives the cheese its unique taste and texture. It is made up of the milk of goats, cows, buffalos, etc. For the formation of cheese, rennet enzymes are used. Cheese goes through an emulsification process that helps it to stay fresh for a long period. You can have different types of cheese available in the market. They have different textures and flavors.

Suggested Read: Health Benefits of Drinking milk

Paneer and Cheese nutritional benefits

Paneer

Rich in calcium
Rich in protein
Rich in good fat
Rich in Magnesium
Keeps you full
Rich in potassium

Cheese

Rich in calcium
Rich in fat
Rich in protein
Rich in vitamins A and B12
Rich in minerals (zinc, phosphorous, and riboflavin)

Both paneer and cheese have many health benefits apart from their delight. Paneer is very essential for heart health as it gradually lowers the number of saturated fats and cholesterol in the body. Both contain a great amount of protein content. However, cheese consists of more amount of calories than equal servings of paneer.

Cheese has a better amount of protein than Paneer so it is a better option to eat for weight and muscle gain. Cheese has a great amount of calcium which makes it a healthy meal for strengthening bones. Cheese contains a vital amount of vitamin A which is essential for human eyes. Women who eat cheese during their pregnancies lower the risk of the newborn developing neurological disorders.

Paneer is most popular in India, especially in the northwestern part, while cheese is increasingly popular in urban areas. Cheese is one of the least popular milk products lagging behind yogurt, ghee, and butter. While Panner is the only type of vegetarian cheese which you can easily make at home and serve to your respective guest as a type of vegetarian cheese.

If you’re looking for a healthy alternative to cheese, try using paneer in your recipes. Whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or simply looking for a delicious way to change up your cooking routine, paneer is a great place to start.