20+ Delicious Cottage Cheese Recipes Indian to Try

Paneer, the Indian term for cottage cheese, is an essential ingredient in Indian cuisine, celebrated for its creamy texture and adaptability. Whether grilled, fried, sautéed, or added to gravies, paneer is a cornerstone of Indian vegetarian cooking. It features prominently in popular Cheese Recipes Indian, Cottage Cheese Recipes Indian, and Healthy Paneer Dishes like paneer tikka, palak paneer, and paneer butter masala, offering both flavor and nutrition.

Paneer’s health benefits make it a favorite for high-protein diets, keto-friendly meals, and healthy vegetarian options. Rich in protein and calcium, it supports muscle growth, bone health, and overall nutrition, especially for vegetarians.

What sets Indian paneer recipes apart is their vibrant use of spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. These seasonings create a unique medley of flavors that enhance paneer’s subtle taste. This article delves into a wide variety of paneer recipes, offering everything from breakfast options to hearty mains, snacks, and even desserts.

Breakfast Ideas – Quick and Healthy Paneer Recipes

Breakfast is often referred to as the most important meal of the day, and incorporating paneer (cottage cheese) into your morning routine can provide a high-protein, nutritious start. Indian breakfast recipes with paneer are flavorful, filling, and easy to prepare. Here are three delightful options to kickstart your day:

Cottage cheese recipes Indian Bhurji – A Spicy Indian Scramble

Paneer Bhurji is a quick and versatile dish that resembles scrambled eggs but uses crumbled paneer instead. It is spiced with a medley of Indian seasonings, making it a flavorful high-protein breakfast option.

Ingredients:

• 200g paneer (crumbled)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 1 medium tomato (finely chopped)
• 1 green chili (optional, finely chopped)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tbsp oil or ghee
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil or ghee in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
2. Sauté onions until golden brown. Add green chili and tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes soften.
3. Add turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well.
4. Toss in the crumbled paneer and cook for 3-4 minutes.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with toasted bread, roti, or as a filling for wraps.

Pro Tip: For a richer flavor, use homemade paneer, which is softer and fresher than store-bought options.

Cottage Cheese Paratha – Stuffed Indian Flatbread

Cottage Cheese Paratha is a hearty North Indian breakfast dish. This stuffed flatbread combines crumbled paneer with aromatic spices to create a wholesome, flavorful meal.

Ingredients for Dough:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• Water as needed
• Pinch of salt

Ingredients for Filling:

• 150g paneer (crumbled)
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp chili powder (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander (finely chopped)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dough by kneading the flour with water and a pinch of salt. Set aside for 20 minutes.
2. Mix the paneer, spices, and fresh coriander to make the filling.
3. Divide the dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a small circle, place some filling in the center, and fold the dough to seal it.
4. Roll the stuffed dough gently into a flat circle.
5. Cook on a hot griddle (tawa) with a bit of ghee until golden on both sides.
6. Serve hot with yogurt or pickle.

Pro Tip: Add grated veggies like carrots or spinach to the filling for added nutrition.

Indian Cottage Cheese Idli – A South Indian Twist

If you’re a fan of South Indian cuisine, this unique twist on traditional idlis incorporates paneer for added protein and creaminess.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup idli batter (store-bought or homemade)
• 100g paneer (grated)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• Salt to taste
• 1 tsp oil

Instructions:

1. Grease idli molds with oil and sprinkle grated paneer into each mold.
2. Mix cumin seeds and a pinch of salt into the idli batter, then pour the batter over the paneer in the molds.
3. Steam the idlis for 10-12 minutes or until they are cooked through.
4. Gently remove the idlis and serve hot with coconut chutney or sambar.

Pro Tip: You can add a touch of black pepper or chopped curry leaves to the batter for extra flavor.

Each of these breakfast recipes is designed to keep you energized throughout the day while offering a delicious way to enjoy paneer.

Cottage cheese recipes Indian Snacks and Starters

Paneer (cottage cheese) is the star ingredient in many Indian snacks and starters. Known for its ability to absorb spices and marinades, paneer is a favorite in quick, flavorful recipes that can be served as appetizers or street-food-inspired bites. Here are three crowd-pleasers:

Paneer Tikka – A Grilled Delight

Paneer Tikka is one of the most loved Indian appetizers. This dish features marinated paneer cubes grilled to perfection, often served with mint chutney.

Ingredients:

• 200g paneer (cubed)
• 1/2 cup yogurt
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp oil
• Salt to taste
• Bell peppers and onions (cut into cubes)
• Skewers

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, spices, lemon juice, oil, and salt to create a thick marinade.
2. Add the paneer cubes, bell peppers, and onions to the marinade. Mix gently and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
3. Thread the marinated paneer and vegetables onto skewers.
4. Grill on a barbecue, stovetop griddle, or in an oven until slightly charred and cooked.
5. Serve hot with mint chutney and lemon wedges.

Pro Tip: Soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning if using a barbecue.

Cottage Cheese Pakoras – Crispy and Flavorful Indian Fritters

Cottage Cheese Pakoras are a quick snack made by dipping paneer cubes in spiced gram flour batter and frying them to golden perfection.

Ingredients:

• 200g paneer (cut into cubes)
• 1 cup gram flour (besan)
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp carom seeds (ajwain)
• Water as needed
• Salt to taste
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine gram flour, turmeric, red chili powder, carom seeds, and salt. Add water gradually to make a thick batter.
2. Heat oil in a deep pan. Dip each paneer cube into the batter, ensuring it is well coated.
3. Fry the coated paneer cubes until golden brown and crispy.
4. Serve hot with tamarind or mint chutney.

Pro Tip: Add a pinch of baking soda to the batter for extra fluffiness.

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Paneer – A High-Protein Snack

This wholesome snack features bell peppers filled with a spiced paneer mixture, baked or grilled for a healthy yet flavorful appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 3 medium bell peppers (halved and seeds removed)
• 150g paneer (crumbled)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 1 green chili (optional, finely chopped)
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• Salt to taste
• 1 tbsp oil
• Grated cheese (optional for topping)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté the onions and green chili until translucent.
2. Add crumbled paneer, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
3. Stuff the bell pepper halves with the paneer mixture. Top with grated cheese if desired.
4. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-12 minutes or grill until the peppers soften slightly.
5. Serve hot as a snack or light starter.

Pro Tip: Use a mix of colorful bell peppers to make the dish visually appealing.

These paneer snacks and starters are perfect for any occasion, from tea-time bites to party appetizers.

Traditional Indian Cottage Cheese Recipes – Must-Try Paneer Curries

Indian paneer curries are the heart of the country’s vegetarian cuisine. Rich, flavorful, and often paired with naan or rice, these dishes showcase the versatility of paneer. Below are four iconic Indian cottage cheese dishes that are sure to impress.

Cottage cheese recipes Indian Butter Masala

Paneer Butter Masala is a beloved North Indian curry made with a creamy tomato-based gravy. It’s mildly spiced and incredibly indulgent, making it a favorite at restaurants and homes alike.

Ingredients:

• 250g paneer (cubed)
• 3 medium tomatoes (pureed)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 cup cream
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tbsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat butter in a pan and sauté onions until golden. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute.
2. Add tomato puree, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the oil separates.
3. Stir in cream and garam masala. Add the paneer cubes and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Garnish with kasuri methi and serve hot with naan or steamed rice.

Pro Tip: For extra richness, soak the paneer in warm milk before adding it to the gravy.

Palak Paneer – Cottage Cheese in Spinach Gravy

Palak Paneer combines paneer with a smooth spinach-based gravy, offering a nutritious and flavorful dish. It’s a popular choice among healthy Indian recipes. check out our Savory Cottage Cheese Recipes.

Ingredients:

• 200g paneer (cubed)
• 3 cups spinach leaves (blanched and pureed)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 1 medium tomato (finely chopped)
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/4 cup cream or yogurt (optional)
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Sauté onions until golden brown, then add ginger-garlic paste.
2. Add tomatoes, turmeric powder, and garam masala. Cook until the mixture thickens.
3. Stir in the spinach puree and cook for 5 minutes. Add cream or yogurt if desired.
4. Add paneer cubes and simmer for another 5 minutes. Serve with roti or jeera rice.

Pro Tip: Use fresh spinach for a vibrant green color and better flavor.

Mattar Paneer – Cottage Cheese with Peas in Tomato Sauce

Mattar Paneer is a comforting curry made with peas and paneer in a mildly spiced tomato-based sauce. It’s simple yet incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 200g paneer (cubed)
• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 medium tomatoes (pureed)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tbsp oil
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions until golden. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook briefly.
2. Stir in tomato puree, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the oil separates.
3. Add green peas and cook until tender. Add paneer cubes and garam masala. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Serve hot with paratha or steamed rice.

Pro Tip: To enhance the flavor, slightly fry the paneer cubes before adding them to the curry.

Shahi Paneer – A Regal Dish for Special Occasions

Shahi Paneer is a royal curry made with a rich base of cream, cashews, and aromatic spices. It’s a perfect dish for festive meals or celebrations.

Ingredients:

• 200g paneer (cubed)
• 2 medium onions (pureed)
• 2 medium tomatoes (pureed)
• 1/4 cup cashew paste
• 1/2 cup cream
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tbsp butter or ghee
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat butter or ghee in a pan and sauté onion puree until golden. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook briefly.
2. Stir in tomato puree, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook until the oil separates.
3. Add cashew paste and cream, mixing well. Let the gravy simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add paneer cubes and garam masala. Cook for another 5 minutes.
5. Garnish with chopped nuts or fresh cilantro and serve with naan or pulao.

Pro Tip: For a richer texture, use full-fat cream and fresh paneer.

These classic Cottage cheese recipes Indian curries are staples of Indian cuisine, offering both flavor and nourishment.

Explore our Cottage Cheese Recipes

Healthy Indian Paneer Recipes – Nutritious and Low-Carb Options

Paneer is not just delicious; it’s also a powerhouse of protein, making it an excellent ingredient for healthy, low-carb meals. With its versatility, paneer easily fits into various diets, including keto, vegetarian, and high-protein plans. Here are three healthy paneer recipes that are light yet flavorful.

Paneer Salad with Indian Spices

This quick and refreshing salad combines the goodness of paneer with fresh vegetables and bold Indian flavors. It’s perfect for a light lunch or side dish.

Ingredients:

• 200g paneer (cubed and lightly grilled or raw)
• 1 cucumber (diced)
• 1 tomato (diced)
• 1 small red onion (sliced)
• 1 bell pepper (diced)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp roasted cumin powder
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the grilled paneer cubes, cucumber, tomato, onion, and bell pepper.
2. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle cumin powder, red chili powder, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to mix.
3. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.

Pro Tip: Add a handful of roasted peanuts or almonds for a crunchy texture.

Grilled Paneer Skewers with Vegetables

These grilled skewers are a healthy and visually appealing snack or meal option, combining paneer and vegetables with minimal oil.

Ingredients:

• 200g paneer (cubed)
• 1 zucchini (sliced into rounds)
• 1 bell pepper (cut into chunks)
• 1 small onion (quartered)
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, salt, and olive oil to make a marinade.
2. Add the paneer and vegetables, tossing to coat evenly. Let it marinate for 20-30 minutes.
3. Thread the paneer and vegetables alternately onto skewers.
4. Grill on a stovetop griddle, oven, or barbecue until lightly charred.
5. Serve hot with lemon wedges and mint yogurt dip.

Pro Tip: Use non-stick skewers for easy grilling and cleanup.

Low-Carb Cottage cheese recipes Indian Curry for Keto Diets

This creamy paneer curry is rich in flavor but low in carbs, making it perfect for keto or low-carb diets. It skips high-carb ingredients like onions and tomatoes, relying on spices and cream for depth.

Ingredients:

• 200g paneer (cubed)
• 1 cup spinach leaves (blanched and pureed)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
• 2 tbsp butter or ghee
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat butter or ghee in a pan and add cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
2. Add the spinach puree, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cream and simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Add paneer cubes and cook until heated through. Serve hot.

Pro Tip: Replace spinach with kale or other leafy greens for variety.

These healthy paneer recipes are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the flavors of Indian cuisine while staying mindful of nutrition.

Desserts with Paneer – Sweet Cottage Cheese Creations

Paneer, or Indian cottage cheese, is not just for savory dishes—it also shines in a variety of Indian desserts. Its creamy texture and mild flavor make it an excellent base for sweet treats. Here are three classic Cottage cheese recipes Indian desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Rasmalai – Soft Paneer Dumplings in Sweetened Milk

Rasmalai is one of the most beloved Indian desserts, featuring soft paneer balls soaked in a creamy, saffron-infused milk sauce.

Ingredients:

• 200g paneer (prepared as small flattened discs)
• 4 cups milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
• A pinch of saffron strands
• 2 tbsp chopped pistachios and almonds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Boil the milk in a wide pan until it reduces to about half its volume. Add sugar, saffron, and cardamom powder. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, prepare the paneer discs by kneading the paneer until smooth, then shaping it into small patties.
3. Place the patties gently in the simmering milk and cook for 10 minutes, allowing them to soak up the flavors.
4. Garnish with chopped pistachios and almonds. Chill before serving.

Pro Tip: Use fresh homemade Cottage cheese Indian for softer rasmalai.

Cottage Cheese Sandesh – A Bengali Delight

Sandesh is a traditional Bengali dessert made with paneer and flavored with cardamom or rose water. It’s light, mildly sweet, and perfect for festive occasions.

Discover more dessert options in our Cottage Cheese Dessert Recipes.

Ingredients:

• 200g paneer (crumbled)
• 4 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
• Few drops of rose water (optional)
• Sliced pistachios for garnish

Instructions:

1. Knead the crumbled paneer with powdered sugar until smooth.
2. Add cardamom powder and rose water, mixing well.
3. Shape the mixture into small discs or molds and garnish with sliced pistachios.
4. Chill for 1-2 hours before serving.

Pro Tip: Use a food processor for smoother sandesh if the paneer is grainy.

Cottage cheese recipes Indian Kheer – A Creamy Indian Dessert

Cottage cheese recipes Indian or Paneer Kheer is a creamy and rich pudding made by combining crumbled paneer with sweetened milk, flavored with cardamom and saffron.

Ingredients:

• 1 liter milk
• 1/2 cup crumbled paneer
• 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
• A pinch of saffron strands
• 2 tbsp chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios)

Instructions:

1. Heat the milk in a heavy-bottomed pan and bring it to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and let it thicken.
2. Add sugar, saffron, and cardamom powder. Stir well.
3. Mix in the crumbled paneer and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Garnish with chopped nuts and serve warm or chilled.

Pro Tip: For extra creaminess, add a few tablespoons of condensed milk.

Conclusion

Paneer is a versatile ingredient that plays a vital role in Indian cuisine, extending beyond savory dishes to delightful desserts. Whether you’re savoring a rich rasmalai or enjoying a simple sandesh, paneer-based sweets offer a unique way to experience the flavors of India.

These desserts are perfect for festivals, special occasions, or just to indulge your cravings. Ready to bring a touch of Indian sweetness to your kitchen? Enjoy experimenting with these Cottage cheese recipes Indian!