Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Boil the Milk

   Pour 1 liter of milk into a pot and bring it to a rolling boil. Ensure the milk is thoroughly heated.

2. 2.Curdle the Milk

   Once the milk is boiling, reduce the heat to low. Gradually add 1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice, stirring gently. Continue stirring until the milk begins to curdle and separate into solids (paneer) and liquid (whey).

3. 3.Turn Off Heat

   As soon as the milk has completely curdled and the paneer solids are clearly separated from the greenish whey, turn off the heat.

4. 4.Prepare for Straining

   Place a clean, thin cotton cloth (like a muslin cloth or cheesecloth) over a bowl or container, ensuring it's securely positioned to catch the paneer.

5. 5.Strain the Paneer

   Carefully pour the curdled milk mixture into the cloth. The paneer solids will remain in the cloth, and the whey will drain into the bowl below.

6. 6.Squeeze Out Whey

   Gather the edges of the cloth and gently squeeze out the excess whey. Be careful as the paneer will still be hot.

7. 7.Rinse the Paneer

   Pour fresh water over the paneer in the cloth. This step is crucial to wash away any residual lemon juice and prevent the paneer from tasting sour.

8. 8.Final Squeeze and Rest

   Gently squeeze the paneer again to remove all the water from rinsing. Then, wrap the paneer tightly in the cloth and let it rest for about 10 minutes to ensure all excess moisture is drained, resulting in soft paneer.

9. 9.Prepare Rice

   Take 2 tablespoons of Joha rice (or any suitable baby rice) and add 1 cup of water to a small pan. Bring the water to a boil.

10. 10.Mash Paneer

    While the rice is boiling, take a small portion of the freshly made paneer (about 2-3 tablespoons) and mash it finely using your fingers or a fork.

11. 11.Cook Paneer with Rice

    Add the mashed paneer to the boiling rice and water mixture. Stir well to combine.

12. 12.Cook Until Soft

    Continue cooking the rice and paneer mixture on low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the rice is very soft and well-cooked, and the paneer is fully incorporated. The consistency should be suitable for a baby.

13. 13.Mash Finely

    Once cooked, mash the paneer rice finely using a spoon or a masher to ensure there are no lumps, making it easy for the baby to consume.

14. 14.Serve

    The homemade paneer rice is now ready to be served to your baby. Offer a small amount according to their appetite.