When it comes to healthy vegetarian protein sources, paneer easily tops the list in Indian households. Whether it’s added to your curry, grilled as tikkas, or eaten raw in salads, paneer is a nutrient-dense food that packs a solid punch of protein, calcium, and good fats. But how much protein and calories are in paneer exactly? Let’s break it down — from 100 grams to a full kilogram — so you know exactly what you’re eating.
Paneer, also known as Indian cottage cheese, is made by curdling milk with lemon juice or vinegar. Unlike other cheeses, it’s non-aged and non-fermented, making it lighter and easier to digest.
Because of its high protein content and versatility, paneer has become a staple for vegetarians looking to meet their daily protein needs without relying on meat or eggs.
In India, paneer isn’t just a food — it’s an emotion. From festive dishes like Shahi Paneer and Paneer Butter Masala to everyday snacks like grilled paneer cubes, it’s a protein source that fits into any meal plan.
Let’s look at what 100 grams of paneer actually gives you in terms of nutritional value:
| Nutrient | Amount (Approximate per 100g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 260–300 kcal |
| Protein | 18–22 grams |
| Fat | 20–25 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 1–2 grams |
| Calcium | 480 mg |
| Phosphorus | 210 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.8 µg |
| Magnesium | 10 mg |
These values can vary slightly depending on the milk used (cow or buffalo) and whether the paneer is full-fat or low-fat.
When someone says 100 gram paneer protein, they’re referring to the 18–22 grams of protein that paneer provides per 100 grams.
That’s quite impressive — roughly equivalent to 3 boiled eggs or a 100g chicken breast.
If you’re tracking calories, 100 gram paneer calories typically range from 260 to 300 kcal, depending on how it’s prepared. For instance:
So, while paneer is a great protein source, cooking methods play a big role in how healthy it stays.
If you’re comparing protein in 100 gm paneer to other foods:
Clearly, paneer outperforms most vegetarian protein sources. That’s why athletes, gym-goers, and those on weight-loss diets often include it in their daily meals.
Beyond just protein, paneer is rich in healthy fats, calcium, and phosphorus, which are crucial for bone and muscle health.
It’s also an excellent source of B vitamins, especially Vitamin B12, which supports energy metabolism and nerve function — something vegetarians often lack.
The calorie count of paneer 100 gm varies depending on its preparation:
| Type of Paneer | Calories (Approximate per 100g) |
|---|---|
| Raw (homemade cow milk paneer) | 260 kcal |
| Buffalo milk paneer | 300 kcal |
| Low-fat paneer | 150–180 kcal |
| Fried paneer | 350–400 kcal |
| Paneer curry (with gravy) | 250–280 kcal |
If your goal is weight loss or muscle gain, adjust the type and portion size accordingly. For lean muscle building, stick to grilled or raw paneer instead of fried varieties.
If 100 grams of paneer provides around 18–22 grams of protein, then:
Similarly, for calories:
But remember — nobody eats a kilogram of paneer in one sitting. This breakdown simply helps you understand how nutrient-dense paneer is, especially if you’re calculating macros for meal prep or fitness goals.
Paneer can fit into almost any diet — weight gain, muscle building, or fat loss. The trick lies in how much and how you cook it.
Your diet affects not just your physique but your hormones and immunity too.
A protein-rich food like paneer helps stabilize blood sugar levels and supports hormone balance — especially when combined with regular checkups and diagnostic care.
For instance, if you suspect imbalances due to fatigue, stress, or weight changes, getting a Hormone Test in Gurgaon can help you identify thyroid or endocrine issues early. Such tests provide deeper insights into how your body is functioning internally while you focus on nutrition and fitness.
Consuming healthy food like paneer is only one side of the equation. To truly stay fit, you need to track your body’s internal health regularly.
A simple Blood Test Lab in Gurgaon can reveal vital markers such as cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood sugar — all of which are directly impacted by your dietary habits.
When you’re consuming paneer regularly, especially if it’s full-fat, keeping an eye on your lipid profile and liver function ensures you’re maintaining the right balance between nutrients and fats.
Paneer contributes indirectly to stronger immunity through its rich amino acid and calcium profile. However, overall immunity depends on a lot more — including gut health, vitamins, and white blood cell function.
If you’re often feeling low in energy or falling sick frequently, consider booking an Immunity Test in Gurgaon. It helps assess your body’s resistance levels and detect underlying infections or deficiencies that nutrition alone can’t reveal.
Homemade Paneer:
Store-Bought Paneer:
Verdict:
If possible, make paneer at home. It’s easy, takes 10–15 minutes, and gives you full control over quality.
Paneer is more than just a tasty dairy product — it’s a complete nutrition package that supports muscle health, bone strength, and overall wellness.
From 100 gram paneer protein counts to the calorie-heavy 1 kg paneer protein total, understanding what’s on your plate helps you make smarter diet choices.
But remember — nutrition is personal. What works for one body might not suit another. So, balance your paneer intake with regular blood and hormone checkups, smart cooking methods, and a lifestyle that values both taste and health.
In summary:
Paneer proves that you don’t need meat to get strong — you just need awareness, moderation, and a plate that fuels your goals wisely.