To make paneer from 1 liter of Amul milk, you will require the following ingredients:
1 liter of Amul milk
2 tablespoons of lemon juice or white vinegar
Cheesecloth or muslin cloth for straining
Boil the Milk
Pour the 1 liter of Amul milk into a clean and spacious pot. Place the pot on medium heat and gradually bring the milk to a boil. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning.
Add Lemon Juice or Vinegar
Once the milk reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat to low. Add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice or white vinegar to the milk. Stir gently and let the milk simmer for a few more minutes. The acid in the lemon juice or vinegar will curdle the milk and separate the whey from the curds, which is essential in paneer-making.
Strain the Curds
Line a colander with cheesecloth or muslin cloth and place it over a large bowl or sink to collect the whey. Carefully pour the curdled milk into the colander, allowing the whey to strain out. The curds that remain in the cloth are what we need t make paneer.
Rinse the Curds
Gather the ends of the cloth containing the curds and rinse them under cold running water. This will help remove any traces of lemon juice or vinegar and prevent the paneer from tasting sour.
Press and Shape the Paneer
Now, it's time to give your paneer its shape. Place the rinsed curds inside the cloth on a flat surface. Fold the cloth over the curds, forming a neat square or rectangle shape. Apply gentle pressure to the wrapped curds by placing a heavyweight on top, such as a heavy pan or a few books. Let it rest for 1 to 2 hours. The weight will help expel excess whey and create a firm block of paneer.
Unwrap and Store
After the pressing time is up, unwrap the cloth to reveal your homemade paneer. Cut it into cubes or slices as per your recipe's requirement. Paneer can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it a convenient ingredient for multiple dishes.
Cooking with Paneer
Paneer's versatility makes it an excellent addition to various dishes. From the classic "Paneer Tikka" to the rich and creamy "Paneer Butter Masala," there are numerous recipes that you can explore and experiment with.
Nutritional Benefits
Paneer is not only delicious but also nutritious. It is an abundant source of protein and calcium, making it suitable for maintaining bone health and muscle strength. Additionally, it contains beneficial fats and is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it an ideal choice for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
Making paneer at home using 1 liter of Amul milk is a simple and rewarding process. With just a few easy steps, you can enjoy fresh and wholesome paneer that enhances the taste of your favorite dishes. By following this guide, you can create paneer that is far superior in taste and quality compared to store-bought options. Enjoy your culinary journey with homemade paneer!
