Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Boil the Milk

   Place 1.5 liters of full-cream buffalo milk in a pot on medium heat. Bring it to a rolling boil, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.

2. 2.Cool the Milk

   Once the milk boils, turn off the flame. Stir the milk gently for 5-6 minutes to allow it to cool slightly and release some steam. This step is crucial for soft paneer.

3. 3.Add Spices

   Add 1/2 tsp whole cumin seeds, 1/4 tsp black pepper powder, 1 tsp finely chopped green chilies, 1 tsp chili flakes, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, and 1/2 tsp salt to the slightly cooled milk. Mix well until all spices are evenly distributed.

4. 4.Add Coriander

   Stir in 1 tbsp of fresh chopped coriander leaves.

5. 5.Prepare Curdling Agent

   In a separate small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of vinegar with 3 tablespoons of water.

6. 6.Curdle the Milk

   Gradually add the vinegar-water mixture to the spiced milk, stirring gently. Continue stirring until the milk completely curdles and the paneer (solids) separates from the greenish whey (liquid).

7. 7.Strain the Paneer

   Line a colander with a clean cotton cloth (or muslin cloth) and place it over a large bowl to collect the whey. Carefully pour the curdled milk into the cloth-lined colander.

8. 8.Rinse and Drain

   Rinse the paneer under cold running water for a minute to remove any vinegary taste. Gently gather the edges of the cloth and lightly squeeze out the excess water. Avoid pressing too hard to keep the paneer soft.

9. 9.Shape and Press

   Place the paneer bundle on a flat plate. Fold the cloth neatly around the paneer to form a round or square shape. Place a heavy object, like a wooden chopping board or another heavy plate, on top of the paneer bundle. Let it press for 20-25 minutes to remove remaining excess water and set its shape.

10. 10.Unmold and Cut

    After 20-25 minutes, remove the weight and carefully unwrap the cloth from the paneer. The homemade Masala Paneer is ready.

11. 11.Serve

    Slice the paneer into desired cubes or pieces. It can be enjoyed as a snack or used in various recipes.