Deep freezing paneer (cottage cheese)?
I have a packet of cottage cheese ( paneer ) and it advises me not to deep freeze it? I can't understand why. Any help? I had it deep frozen right from the time I bought it. It is also 3 days past its 'best before' date. Can I still use it?
Best Answer
I live in one of the largest cheese producing areas in the US. Freezing cheese is often frowned upon here, it often changes the texture of the cheese and can alter the flavor as well. Cheese, much like anything else, can freezer burn. Firmer cheeses typically are affected the least by being frozen. You'll probably see a lot of the whey separate out of the cheese upon thawing, and the texture will likely be different and much drier. Its completely possible to freeze the cheese, and it poses no health risks, but it will most definitely reduce the quality of your cheese.
A "best before" date is exactly as its stated, its best to eat if before the provided date with a concern for quality rather than health risks, however storage conditions make a big difference. As far as food safety, cheese tends to remain safe to eat until visible mold/fungi appears on the cheese. Though I say use your best judgement, and if you don't feel comfortable eating it then you should discard it, or to reduce waste compost it for your garden.
Pictures about "Deep freezing paneer (cottage cheese)?"
Can we deep freeze paneer?
Can you freeze Paneer? Yes, you can safely freeze Paneer in its original, unopened package to extend its shelf life. If already open, wrap it in a single layer of plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil to avoid freezer burn. We recommend keeping the product in the refrigerator the night before you plan to use it.Does paneer cheese freeze well?
Yes, the paneer freezes well, and if done right, it can last in the freezer for a couple of months. Freezing paneer is a great way to extend its short shelf life. But keep in mind that the paneer deteriorates over time in the freezer, so it is best to use it up sooner rather than later.Can you freeze cottage cheese in the freezer?
Like other types of cheese, cottage cheese can be frozen to extend its shelf life and help it last longer. Unopened cottage cheese can last around 3\u20136 months in the freezer. On the other hand, cottage cheese that has been opened can be frozen for up to 2\u20133 months.What happens if we freeze paneer?
If you keep it in airtight containers in the freezer, then your frozen paneer will be good for 6 months. In the latter stages of these 6 months, there is a chance the paneer will lose some of its original texture. What is this? It's probably a good idea to try and use it within 3 months where possible.Stop cottage cheese from spoiling in the refrigerator
More answers regarding deep freezing paneer (cottage cheese)?
Answer 2
I have seen frozen paneer before. It is certainly not a good Idea to Freeze it. It turns yellow(off-whitish, due to the acids used in separation of cheese from milk) and loses texture ( as mentioned by @tsturzl ). When you thaw it if you find a lot of difference in taste and smell than that would be because it's past best before date. Paneer normally has very mild sour-milky odor with firm white texture and tastes bit like tofu bit milder.
Answer 3
Personally I always buy multiple packages when on sale and freeze the stuff. I take it out of the freezer the day before I want to use it. It stays firm and tasty. The longest I've kept it in the freezer was about two months.
Answer 4
Paneer when deep-frozen loses its texture and taste. It is supposed to be soft and supple. It does not thaw well.
Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Images: Svetlana Obysova, Pixabay, Abhishek Mahajan, Alain Frechette