This one comes up a lot, especially from parents just starting solids and looking for something soft, mild and easy to hold. Here’s the honest answer, auntie to auntie.
So, can babies eat paneer?
Yes, paneer is a great option for babies once they’re ready for solids. It’s mild, soft and doesn’t have the sharp or salty flavours some cheeses do, which makes it an easy first taste. It’s also about as simple as food gets, just milk, curdled and pressed, with nothing else added, so there’s no hidden salt, sugar or preservatives to worry about. The bigger question isn’t whether babies can eat it, it’s which paneer and how it’s prepared.
What age can I start giving it?
Most guidance points to around six months, once your little one is ready for solids and can sit up and manage food independently. As with any new food, it’s worth checking with your GP or health visitor first, particularly if there’s a family history of allergies.
How should I serve it?
Go for the Original Plain rather than our flavoured blocks, since little ones don’t need added salt or spice this early on. For baby-led weaning, cut it into soft, thick fingers your baby can grip. For younger babies or spoon-feeding, a light warm through in a pan (no oil or salt needed) softens it further and makes it easier to mash.
Any other tips?
Start small, watch how your baby gets on, and don’t feel you need to season it for them to enjoy it, paneer’s mild flavour tends to go down well on its own. And if you want to branch out, it holds its shape beautifully in soft veggie traybakes or simple dals once your baby’s ready for more texture.
Got a paneer question we haven’t covered? Drop us a line any time at hello@alltheaunties.co.uk and we’ll do our best to answer it, or turn it into the next FAQ.
