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Paneer, a fresh milk-based cheese commonly used in Indian cuisine, is loved for its mild flavour, soft texture, and versatility. It forms the base of a variety of dishes, from rich, creamy curries to snacks like paneer tikka. Made by curdling milk with an acid like lemon juice or vinegar, paneer is not just a staple in Indian households but is also gaining popularity across the world for its ability to absorb the flavours of the dishes it is cooked with.
Fake paneer is a serious concern, as it not only compromises the quality of the dishes but can also pose potential health risks. The practice of creating imitation paneer involves using harmful chemicals and non-dairy ingredients to replicate the appearance and texture of authentic paneer. To be more cautious about which paneer is original, here are some tests you can do at home.
Iodine Test
The Iodine Test is a quick and effective method to detect starch in paneer, helping identify if it’s genuine or mixed with fillers. Place a few drops of iodine on a small piece of paneer to perform the test. If it turns blue, it indicates the presence of starch, a common adulterant in fake paneer. This simple test is effective because genuine paneer lacks starch, ensuring a natural product without added fillers, which affects flavour and nutrition.
Taste Test
Real paneer has a fresh, slightly milky flavour with a creamy, soft texture. In contrast, fake paneer often tastes rubbery, sour, or slightly bitter due to artificial additives or starch. By tasting a small piece, you can detect these differences almost instantly. This method is effective because it relies on sensory clues that are hard to mimic, helping you distinguish quality paneer without specialised tools.
Lemon Juice Test
When fresh, authentic paneer curdles or becomes firm upon contact with lemon juice, it indicates thati it’s made from real milk. However, fake paneer, often made with starch or chemicals, won't react similarly. This simple test ensures the authenticity of your paneer, helping you avoid substandard or adulterated products. It’s a quick, cost-free method to ensure the quality and safety of what you're consuming.
Water Test
To perform it, simply drop a small piece of paneer into a glass of water. Authentic paneer will sink to the bottom, while fake paneer, will float. This test works because real paneer has a natural density, while fake versions are often lighter due to the presence of fillers.
Heat Taste
One effective way to identify fake paneer is by taking the heat test. When heated, genuine paneer retains a soft, creamy texture and a mild, subtle taste. In contrast, fake paneer often turns rubbery or chewy and may have an unpleasant, bitter taste. This is because fake paneer is typically made using non-dairy fats, which react differently when exposed to heat.
