Why buy cheese when you can make it at home? With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create delicious homemade cheese in 5 minutes.
This recipe is perfect for those who love fresh, creamy, and customizable cheese.
Ingredients
Basic Ingredients:
1 liter (4 cups) of whole milk
2 tablespoons of lemon juice (or white vinegar)
1/2 teaspoon of salt
Optional for Enhanced Flavor:
10 g butter (for creaminess and sharpness)
Herbs or spices (such as parsley, oregano, or paprika)
Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Milk
Pour 1 liter of whole milk into a large saucepan.
Heat the milk over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Heat the milk until it begins to steam and small bubbles form around the edges (do not let it boil).
Step 2: Add the Lemon Juice or Vinegar
Once the milk is hot but not boiling, reduce the heat to low.
Slowly stir in 2 tablespoons of lemon juice (or white vinegar).
Stir gently for 1-2 minutes until the milk begins to curdle and separates into curds (solids) and whey (liquid).
Step 3: Strain the Curds
Line a colander with a clean cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer.
Pour the curdled milk through the cheesecloth to separate the curds from the whey.
Gather the edges of the cheesecloth and gently squeeze out excess liquid. Be careful not to squeeze too hard, as it may affect the texture of the cheese.
Step 4: Add Salt and Butter
Transfer the curds to a mixing bowl.
Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 10 g of butter for extra creaminess and sharpness.
Mix well until smooth and uniform.
Step 5: Customize Your Cheese (Optional)
For a flavorful twist, mix in your favorite herbs or spices such as parsley, oregano, chili flakes, or paprika.
Shape the cheese into a block or press it into a mold for a uniform look.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Place the cheese in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Once chilled, slice, grate, or spread your homemade cheese.
Tips for Perfect Homemade Cheese
Consistency: For firmer cheese, let it sit under a weight (like a heavy plate) for 30 minutes after shaping.
Leftover Whey: Save the whey for smoothies, soups, or bread recipes—it’s packed with nutrients!
Flavor Variations: Experiment with garlic, black pepper, or cumin for unique cheese flavors.
Time Breakdown
Preparation Time: 2 minutes
Cooking and Curdling Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Enjoy Your Homemade Cheese!
Fresh, creamy, and free from unnecessary additives, this homemade cheese is perfect for sandwiches, salads, or as a snack.
Say goodbye to store-bought cheese and hello to your own delicious creation!