Call It Paneer Or Cottage Cheese, You've Got To Love it

Versatile and popular

Cottage cheese or paneer is a favourite with people of all age groups. While it’s a kitchen staple in northern India—think of kadhai paneer, butter paneer masala or palak paneer—it’s found its way in foods from all over the country—in dosas, wraps, momos, and more.

With a deliciously creamy texture that lends itself well to diverse cuisines and preparations, this milk product is not only high in taste but scores well on the nutrition front too. Other than the usual preparations, cottage cheese can be enjoyed as a protein-rich addition to a bowl of oats or porridge, in a healthy smoothie or a salad, or can be had raw with a fruit as a super nutritious post-workout snack.

High in health

Lindsey Pine, MS and a registered dietician, tells prevention.com that “cottage cheese keeps you feeling full for longer, which can help you lose weight.” Cottage cheese contains casein, a slow-digesting protein, which is also found in supplements and protein powders. This makes it an ideal post-workout snack. “Plus, it has plenty of vitamins and minerals, such as B12, selenium, and riboflavin,” adds Pine.

In a 2018 study, Florida State University researchers found that cottage cheese can be a good night-time snack. The study, which is published in the British Journal of Nutrition, found that consuming “30 grams of protein about 30 minutes before bed appears to have a positive effect on muscle quality, metabolism and overall health”.

It also helps you get your daily dose of calcium, which plays a key role in maintaining bone health.

Note: Make sure you include cottage cheese as part of a well-balanced diet that’s also rich in green leafy vegetables and fresh fruits. Try to enjoy it in its natural form and avoid deep frying it as it tends to absorb oil and becomes very high in fat content.