Learn why paneer can lose its texture when stored near certain vegetables. Discover how to protect it from moisture to keep it firm and fresh.
1 Answer
Paneer loses texture near vegetables in the fridge due to the high moisture content of vegetables, which the paneer absorbs, leading to a soggy or mushy consistency. Storing them separately helps maintain paneer's desired texture.
Detailed Explanation:
Paneer, being a fresh cheese, is susceptible to absorbing moisture from its surroundings. Vegetables, especially leafy greens and those with high water content like cucumbers or tomatoes, release moisture as they sit in the refrigerator. When paneer is stored in close proximity to these vegetables, it draws in this excess moisture. This absorption disrupts the paneer's protein structure, causing it to become soft, lose its firmness, and ultimately degrade in texture. The paneer essentially becomes waterlogged, resulting in a less desirable, often mushy, consistency. Proper storage is key to preventing this.
Pro Tip:
To prevent paneer from becoming soggy, store it separately from vegetables in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture. Change the paper towel every day or two for best results.