🥛 Dairy

Paneer Substitute in USA - Where to Find and Best Alternatives

Discover where to find paneer in the USA and the best substitutes available in American grocery stores. Get specific brand recommendations and store locations for authentic Indian cooking.

✓

Quick Answer

In the USA, you can find paneer at Indian grocery stores, Whole Foods, and some mainstream supermarkets. The best substitutes available in US stores are extra-firm tofu, halloumi, queso fresco, and ricotta salata.

Best Substitutes

Extra-Firm Tofu

1:1

Widely available in US grocery stores, excellent texture and protein content

Best for:

all paneer dishescurriesgrilled dishesstir-fries

Available at most grocery stores, press well before using

Halloumi Cheese

1:1

Available at Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, and specialty stores

Best for:

grilled dishespaneer tikkaspicy currieskebabs

Look for Cypriot or Greek halloumi, rinse to reduce saltiness

Queso Fresco

1:1

Mexican cheese available at most grocery stores and Latin markets

Best for:

mild curriescreamy dishesmattar paneertraditional-style dishes

Available at Walmart, Target, and most grocery stores

Ricotta Salata

1:1

Available at Italian markets and specialty cheese stores

Best for:

mild curriescreamy dishesmattar paneertraditional preparations

Look for it in the specialty cheese section of grocery stores

Paneer (Indian Stores)

1:1

Authentic paneer available at Indian grocery stores

Best for:

all paneer dishesauthentic Indian cookingtraditional recipes

Check Patel Brothers, India Bazaar, or local Indian markets

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Check Indian grocery stores like Patel Brothers, India Bazaar, or local Indian markets for authentic paneer
  • 💡Whole Foods and Trader Joe's often carry halloumi cheese
  • 💡Look for extra-firm tofu in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores
  • 💡Queso fresco is usually found in the dairy section near other Mexican cheeses
  • 💡Ricotta salata is typically in the specialty cheese section
  • 💡Call ahead to Indian stores to check paneer availability
  • 💡Some Costco locations carry halloumi cheese in bulk
  • 💡Check the international section of larger grocery stores for paneer

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find paneer in the USA?

Paneer is available at Indian grocery stores like Patel Brothers, India Bazaar, and local Indian markets. Some Whole Foods and specialty stores also carry it. Check the refrigerated section or ask store staff for help locating it.

What's the best substitute for paneer available in US grocery stores?

Extra-firm tofu is the most widely available and best substitute for paneer in US stores. It's found at most grocery stores, has similar texture, and absorbs flavors well. Halloumi and queso fresco are also good options.

Can I find halloumi cheese in regular US grocery stores?

Yes, halloumi is available at Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, and some larger grocery stores. Look for it in the specialty cheese section. Some Costco locations also carry it in bulk.

Is queso fresco a good substitute for paneer?

Yes, queso fresco is an excellent substitute for paneer. It's widely available in US stores, has a similar mild flavor and soft texture. It works particularly well in mild curries and creamy dishes.

Do I need to go to specialty stores to find good paneer substitutes?

No, you can find excellent paneer substitutes at regular grocery stores. Extra-firm tofu and queso fresco are available at most stores, while halloumi can be found at Whole Foods and Trader Joe's. Indian stores are best for authentic paneer.

Summary

Find where to buy paneer in the USA and discover the best substitutes available in American grocery stores. Get store recommendations and brand suggestions for authentic Indian cooking.