Not Vegan (Animal-Derived)Category: dairy, animal-byproduct, proteinReviewed: Aug 24, 2026

Paneer

Paneer is a non-aged, non-melting soft cheese made by curdling cow or buffalo milk with lemon juice, vinegar, or citric acid. Because it is made from animal milk, it is not vegan.

Vegan Status Breakdown

Paneer is a non-aged, non-melting soft cheese made by curdling cow or buffalo milk with lemon juice, vinegar, or citric acid. Because it is made from animal milk, it is not vegan.

Biological Origin & Animal Source:

Cow or buffalo dairy milk

Common Synonyms, E-Numbers & Trade Names:

Indian cottage cheesechennacurd cheesedairy paneer

Hidden & Derivative Names to Watch Out For:

cottage cheese solidsmilk curdchenna

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Common Uses & Applications

Indian curries (Palak Paneer, Matar Paneer, Kadai Paneer)
Tandoori tikkas and kebabs
Stuffed parathas and wraps
Indian sweets (rasgulla, sandesh)

Nutrition Facts (per 100g)

Standard reference data via USDA FoodData Central

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289

Calories (kcal)

18.3g

Protein

3.6g

Carbohydrates

20.8g

Total Fat

0.9g

Dietary Fiber

Calcium: 208 mg

Plant-Based Substitutes

Culinary swaps with exact ratios and chef instructions

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Firm Pressed Tofu

protein, texture
Ratio: 100g firm or extra-firm pressed tofu per 100g dairy paneer (1:1 weight substitution. Press for 15-20 minutes before marinating or frying)

For the most authentic paneer mouthfeel, press extra-firm tofu for 15 minutes, toss lightly with cornstarch, turmeric, and pinch of salt, then shallow fry until edges turn golden before dropping into curry.

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Scientific & Regulatory Authority Sources:

Frequently Asked Questions

Is paneer vegan?
No. Traditional Indian paneer is made from curdled dairy milk. Extra-firm pressed tofu makes a 1:1 identical vegan swap in all Indian curries.
How do you substitute paneer for vegans?
Press extra-firm tofu for 15 minutes, cube it, and lightly pan-fry with turmeric, nutritional yeast, and salt to match the exact texture and protein profile of paneer.