Homemade cheese

Homemade Cheese – A Taste and Tradition Delight

Cheese is more than just an ingredient; it is a true treasure of gastronomy, a perfect synthesis of tradition and culinary art. Its making is a process that combines science with craftsmanship, and today I will reveal to you the secret of obtaining a delicious homemade cheese using fresh milk and a little rennet. I invite you to join this culinary adventure step by step!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 12-24 hours (including maturation)
Total time: 12-24 hours
Number of servings: 10-12

Ingredients

- 9.5 liters of unpasteurized milk
- 2 ml rennet (make sure it's of good quality)
- 1.5 - 2 liters of water (for scalding)
- 1 teaspoon salt (optional but recommended)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What type of milk can I use?
You can use cow, sheep, or a mixture of milks. Unpasteurized milk provides a richer taste and better texture.

2. Where can I find rennet?
Rennet can be found in specialty stores or online. Make sure to read the usage instructions, as the dosage may vary depending on the type of rennet.

3. What do I do if I don't have a cheese mold?
You can use a deep bowl lined with cheesecloth or a clean towel.

Step by step: How to make homemade cheese

Step 1: Preparing the milk
Start by placing the milk in a large pot and heating it over medium heat. When the temperature reaches between 35-37°C, turn off the heat. It is essential that the milk is not too hot, as excessive heat can affect the coagulation process.

Step 2: Adding the rennet
After the milk has reached the desired temperature, add the rennet. Gently stir with a wooden spoon to incorporate it evenly. Let it sit for about 30 minutes, during which the curd will form.

Step 3: Cutting the curd
After the waiting time has passed, use a knife to cut the curd into small cubes. This step is crucial to allow the whey to separate from the curd. Let it rest for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Draining the curd
Transfer the curd to a sieve or cheesecloth and let it drain for 12-24 hours. At this point, you have obtained the curds, which can be consumed as is, but we will continue to transform it into cheese.

Step 5: Scalding
In another pot, bring the water to a boil, but make sure it does not exceed 80°C. If the water boils, you can add a little cold water to reduce the temperature. Cut the curds into small slices and place them in the hot water.

Step 6: Kneading
As soon as you place the curds in the water, use two wooden spoons to stir it. This step needs to be quick, as the curds will start to become elastic. Continue kneading for 5-10 minutes until you achieve a smooth and elastic consistency.

Step 7: Shaping the cheese
Transfer the cheese mass into a mold greased with a little oil. Make sure it is well compacted, then let it sit at room temperature for 12-24 hours to mature.

Step 8: Finishing
After the maturation time has passed, remove the cheese from the mold and before wrapping it and placing it in the fridge, lightly coat it with salt. This will not only enhance the flavor but also help with its preservation.

Personal note
Homemade cheese has a unique aroma that cannot be compared to store-bought varieties. You can add herbs or spices during the scalding process to give it a personal touch. For example, dried basil or chili pepper can turn this cheese into a delicacy.

Serving suggestions
The resulting cheese is delicious served plain, but you can also use it in various dishes. I recommend including it in:

- Salads: add cheese cubes over a green salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and olive oil.
- Sandwiches: use it in sandwiches with fresh vegetables and meat.
- Pizza: homemade cheese melts beautifully, providing a creamy texture to baked dishes.

Nutritional benefits
Cheese is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and vitamins, essential for bone and muscle health. It also contains probiotics that help maintain a healthy gut flora.

Possible variations
- Herb cheese: Add herbs during the scalding process for a more intense flavor.
- Spiced cheese: Experiment with spices like pepper or paprika to give it a spicy note.

Conclusion
Making homemade cheese may seem like a complex process, but with a little patience and attention, the result will be truly impressive. Whether you enjoy it plain or use it in various recipes, this cheese will bring a touch of joy to every meal. Don’t forget to share the result with friends and family; they will surely appreciate your effort and the authentic taste of this homemade delicacy!