Paneer is one of the most loved ingredients in Indian kitchens — but also one of the most commonly ruined.
If your paneer turns rubbery, chewy, or dry, you’re not alone.
The good news?
Cooking soft paneer is not about fancy techniques — it’s about doing a few simple things right.
In this blog, you’ll learn 7 proven tips to keep paneer soft, plus a restaurant-style paneer curry recipe using Sparsh Masala that tastes rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced every single time.
What Makes Paneer Tricky to Cook?
Paneer is a fresh cheese, not meat. That means:
Overcooking makes it hard
High heat removes moisture
Wrong timing ruins texture
Most people blame the paneer quality — but the real issue is how it’s cooked.
7 Proven Tips to Cook Paneer Soft Every Time
1. Always Soak Paneer in Warm Water
Before cooking, soak paneer cubes in warm salted water for 10 minutes.
✔ Restores moisture
✔ Prevents dryness
✔ Makes paneer sponge-like
This single step fixes 50% of paneer problems.
2. Never Fry Paneer on High Flame
High heat instantly hardens paneer.
If frying is needed:
Use medium flame
Fry lightly (golden, not brown)
Remove immediately
Over-fried paneer = rubbery paneer.
3. Add Paneer at the END, Not the Start
Paneer should always be added after the gravy is fully cooked.
If paneer cooks too long in gravy:
It loses softness
Absorbs too much oil
Becomes chewy
4. Avoid Boiling Paneer in Curry
Paneer should simmer gently, not boil.
✔ Low flame
✔ 5–7 minutes max
✔ Lid partially covered
This keeps it juicy and tender.
5. Use Fresh Onion–Tomato Base
Avoid canned sauces.
Fresh onions + tomatoes:
Add natural sweetness
Balance spices
Prevent bitterness
Paneer tastes best in a fresh masala base.
6. Balance Spices — Don’t Overpower Paneer
Paneer is mild. Too many spices ruin it.
That’s why using ready balanced masalas like:
Sparsh Kitchen King Masala
Sparsh Garam Masala
…works better than mixing random powders.
7. Finish with Fat (Butter / Cream / Ghee)
A small finishing fat:
Locks moisture
Enhances mouthfeel
Gives restaurant-style richness
Even 1 tsp makes a big difference.
Recipe: Soft Paneer Masala Curry (Restaurant Style)
Ingredients
200 g paneer (cubed)
1 large onion (finely chopped)
2 tomatoes (pureed)
1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
½ tsp turmeric
1 tsp chilli powder
1 tsp Sparsh Kitchen King Masala
Salt to taste
2 tbsp oil + 1 tsp butter
½ cup water
Fresh coriander
Method
Soak Paneer
Soak paneer cubes in warm salted water for 10 minutes. Drain.Prepare Masala Base
Heat oil, sauté onions till golden. Add ginger-garlic paste.Spice It Right
Add turmeric, chilli powder, and Sparsh Kitchen King Masala.Add Tomato Puree
Cook till oil separates and masala thickens.Add Paneer LAST
Add paneer cubes and water. Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes.Finish
Add butter, garnish with coriander. Switch off flame.
Serve hot with roti, naan, or jeera rice.
Quick Paneer Recipe Ideas
Paneer Bhurji
Crumble paneer, cook with onions and Sparsh Garam Masala.
Paneer Pulao
Add paneer cubes to rice and season with Sparsh Biryani Masala.
Paneer Tikka (Home Style)
Marinate paneer with curd + Sparsh Tandoori Masala, grill or pan-fry.
Health Benefits of Paneer
High-quality protein
Rich in calcium
Keeps you full longer
Ideal for vegetarian diets
When cooked right, paneer is both healthy and delicious.
FAQ
Overcooking or frying on high heat removes moisture.
Optional. Soaking works better than frying.
No. Always bring to room temperature or soak first.
Balanced blends like Sparsh Kitchen King Masala.
Yes, when cooked softly and mildly spiced.
Conclusion
Paneer doesn’t need complex tricks — just the right method and balanced spices.
With Sparsh Masala, even simple paneer dishes turn rich, soft, and restaurant-worthy.
If your paneer has ever disappointed you, try these tips once — you’ll never cook it the same way again.
