Paneer (Payasa-khanda (derived from Ksheera))
Paneer is a fresh, non-aged, non-melting cheese prepared by curdling heated milk with a food-grade acid such as lemon juice or vinegar. In the Ayurvedic kitchen, it is categorized under the gorasa (dairy) varga. It is valued for its dense, nourishing qualities, providing a concentrated source of protein and fat that supports tissue building (brimhana) and strength (bala).
Category: dairy
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Madhura
- Virya: Sheeta
- Vipaka: Madhura
Preparation notes
Paneer is best consumed fresh. To improve its digestibility, it should be lightly sautéed or cooked in warm, spiced gravies. Consuming it cold or raw is generally discouraged as it increases the digestive load.
Health benefits
- Supports tissue nourishment and muscle building
- Provides sustained energy due to its dense composition
- Promotes satiety and grounding
- Supports reproductive tissue (shukra) health when prepared properly
Culinary uses
- Added to curries and vegetable stir-fries
- Grilled or pan-seared as a protein-rich appetizer
- Incorporated into desserts like Rasgulla or Sandesh
- Used in stuffed parathas
Indications
- Emaciation
- Need for strength
- Vata-related depletion
Pathya (supportive)
- Post-recovery from illness (with caution)
- Athletic recovery
Apathya (avoid)
- Obesity
- High cholesterol
- Active congestion
- Weak digestion
Classical sources
- Charaka Samhita · Sutra Sthana · Dharanadiyoga Adhyaya · Verse 43 · Verse 44 · Verse 45 · Verse 46 · Verse 47 · Verse 48 · Verse 49 · Verse 50 · Verse 51 · Verse 52 · Verse 53 · Verse 54 · Verse 55 · Verse 56 · Verse 57 · Verse 58 · Verse 59 · Verse 60 · Verse 61 · Verse 62 · Verse 63 · Verse 64 · Verse 65 · Dravyadi Varga · Dravyadi Vijnaniya Adhyaya · Unit 26 — 01 26
- Kaiyadeva Nighantu · Nighantu 1 · Unit 30 — 01 30
- Kaiyadeva Nighantu · Nighantu 1 · Unit 35 — 01 35
- Sushruta Samhita · Sūtra Sthana 1 · Unit 7 — 01 7
- Charaka Samhita · Sutra Sthana · Dravya Varga · Dasha Vidha Kalpa Adhyaya · Ikshu-varga · Ikshu-varga · Kr̥tānna-varga · Kr̥tānna-varga · Aharayogi Varga · Aharayogi Adhyaya · Aṣṭaṅgādiśamāśrayanīyam · Unit 6 — 01 6