Indian-style cottage cheese is one of the healthiest dairy products you can opt for, especially if you’re consuming it in the first half of the day. It is made by curdling milk with an acidic agent such as lemon juice, vinegar, or yoghurt. The process begins by heating milk until it reaches a near-boiling point. Once hot, the acidic agent is added, causing the milk to curdle and separate into curds and whey.
The mixture is then strained through a muslin cloth or cheesecloth to separate the curds from the whey. The curds are gathered in the cloth, rinsed with cold water to remove any residual acidity, and then pressed to remove excess moisture and shape the cheese into a block. This results in a soft, crumbly cheese which is creamy, with a mild, slightly tangy flavour. It’s easy to add cottage cheese to any meal, especially in breakfasts, since it can be paired with bread, oats, milk or some fruit. Here are some of the primary benefits of consuming cottage cheese during the first half of the day.
High Protein Content
Indian cottage cheese is quite famed for its high protein content, making it an ideal breakfast option for those looking to boost their protein intake. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, as well as for keeping you feeling full and satisfied throughout the morning. Including paneer in your breakfast can provide you with the necessary fuel to kickstart your day with energy.
Sustained Energy Levels
Unlike foods high in refined carbohydrates, which can cause energy levels to spike and crash, cottage cheese offers a steady release of energy due to its protein and fat content. Starting your day with a protein-rich breakfast incorporating Indian cottage cheese can help stabilize blood sugar levels, keeping you feeling energised and focused until your next meal.
Rich Source of Calcium
Calcium is vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth, and cottage cheese serves as an excellent source of this essential mineral. Incorporating Indian cottage cheese into your breakfast can help meet your daily calcium requirements, thereby supporting bone health and reducing the risk of osteoporosis later in life.
Promotes Muscle Growth and Repair
Protein is crucial for muscle growth and repair, making it an essential nutrient for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Consuming cottage cheese for breakfast provides your muscles with the amino acids they need to recover from workouts and build strength. Whether you're a gym-goer or simply looking to maintain muscle mass, starting your day with a protein-packed meal featuring cottage cheese can aid in achieving your fitness goals.
Boosts Immune Function
The vitamins and minerals found in paneer, including vitamin A, vitamin D, and zinc, play a vital role in supporting immune function. A healthy immune system is essential for defending the body against infections and illnesses, making it crucial to consume nutrient-rich foods like Indian cottage cheese regularly. By incorporating it into your breakfast, you can give your immune system the support it needs to keep you healthy and resilient.
Contributes to Heart Health
Contrary to popular belief, not all fats are bad for you, and the fats found in Indian cottage cheese can actually be beneficial for heart health. The monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats present in cottage cheese help raise HDL (good) cholesterol levels while lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease. By opting for a breakfast that includes cottage cheese, you can support cardiovascular health.