Homemade cheese

Homemade Cheese: A Delight Cooked with Love

Homemade cheese is not only a delicious alternative to store-bought products but also a healthy way to provide your loved ones with pure cheese, free from preservatives or additives. With a history full of tradition, making this delight will remind you of the tastes of childhood when cheese was lovingly prepared by grandparents. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for breakfast or sandwiches, and I am sure it will delight you!

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 grams of fresh cow cheese
- 500 ml of milk
- 75 grams of sheep cheese
- 100 grams of butter
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- Salt, to taste

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the fresh cow cheese is well-drained and does not contain excess water. Use quality sheep cheese, as it adds an intense flavor to your cheese. If you don't have sheep cheese, you can use feta or goat cheese instead, but the taste will vary.

Step 2: Boiling the milk
Heat 500 ml of milk in a pot until it is almost boiling. It is important not to let it boil too hard, as it can curdle and turn into cheese.

Step 3: Mixing the cheeses
In a large bowl, combine the fresh cow cheese with the sheep cheese. Add the baking soda and salt to taste. Mix well until you achieve a smooth, lump-free composition. You can use a fork or a mixer to get a fine texture.

Step 4: Melting the butter
While mixing the cheese, melt 100 grams of butter in the same pot where you boiled the milk. Make sure the butter does not burn, but melts completely.

Step 5: Combining the ingredients
Once the butter is melted, add the cheese mixture to the pot. Stir constantly over low heat until the composition becomes a smooth and spreadable paste. This step is essential for achieving a fine and creamy texture.

Step 6: Cooling and forming
After obtaining a smooth paste, take a container and line it with plastic wrap. Pour the cheese mixture into the container and level the surface. Let the composition cool to room temperature, then place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step will help the cheese to firm up.

Step 7: Serving
After it has firmed up, take the cheese out of the refrigerator and cut it into slices. It is perfect to be served alongside boiled eggs, a fresh tomato salad, or even in sandwiches. You can also add some fresh herbs for an extra flavor.

Serving suggestions:
Homemade cheese is versatile and can be served in various ways. You can use it as a filling for pies, alongside grilled vegetables, or even as a main ingredient in pasta sauces.

Nutritional benefits:
Homemade cheese is rich in protein and calcium, making it an excellent source of essential nutrients. Cow cheese contains probiotics, which contribute to digestive health, while sheep cheese adds a savory flavor and a high content of healthy fats.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese, but the final taste and texture will vary.
2. How long does homemade cheese last?
The cheese lasts in the refrigerator for about a week in an airtight container.
3. Can I freeze the cheese?
Although it is not recommended, if you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it, but it will lose some texture.

Possible variations:
- You can add spices like garlic powder, pepper, or herbs for a special taste.
- You can also mix in olives or peppers for a more intense flavor.

Now that you have the complete recipe, I invite you to try making this homemade cheese. It is a pleasant activity that you can do together with your loved ones, and I am sure the result will please everyone. Besides all this, it will add a touch of nostalgia and warmth to your meals. Enjoy your meal!