Homemade Mozzarella (quick version)

Homemade Mozzarella Recipe - Quick Version

Looking for a quick and delicious homemade mozzarella recipe? This quick version will help you prepare your favorite cheese in record time, without compromising on taste and texture. Get ready for a culinary adventure that takes about 1 hour and rewards you with fresh, flavorful mozzarella, perfect for salads, pizza, or simply enjoyed on a slice of crispy bread.

Total Time: 1 hour
Number of Servings: Approximately 10 servings

Ingredients:
- 7.5 liters of fresh, unpasteurized milk (preferably cow's milk)
- 14 drops of rennet (or 1/2 tablet) dissolved in 4 tablespoons of water
- 3 teaspoons of citric acid
- Water (for preparation)
- Salt (to taste)

A Bit of History
Mozzarella has found its way into the hearts of many due to its creamy texture and versatility in dishes. This cheese, originating from dairy traditions, is a symbol of culinary joy, perfect for both festive meals and simple snacks. Making mozzarella at home not only allows you to enjoy a fresh product but also connects you with the roots of traditional gastronomy.

Preparation

Step 1: Heating the Milk
Start by pouring the milk into a stainless steel pot, preferred for its heat conduction properties. Place the pot on the stove and heat the milk until it reaches a temperature of 35°C. Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure accuracy, as temperature is crucial for achieving perfect cheese.

Step 2: Adding Citric Acid
Once the milk has reached the desired temperature, turn off the heat. Dissolve the citric acid in 4 tablespoons of water and add it to the milk. Gently stir with a spatula or wooden spoon, being careful not to agitate too much. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, this time being essential for the acid to take effect.

Step 3: Adding Rennet
After the 5 minutes of resting, dissolve the rennet in another 4 tablespoons of water and add it to the mixture. Stir gently again. Now, cover the pot and let it sit for 20-30 minutes. This is the stage where the milk will separate into cheese and whey.

Step 4: Cutting the Curd
After the waiting time, check if the curd has formed. Use a knife to cut the curd into pieces about 2.5 cm. This will help release the whey.

Step 5: Draining the Whey
Transfer the cheese pieces to a strainer. Use your hands to squeeze out as much whey as possible. This step is important for achieving a pleasant texture and reducing moisture.

Step 6: Forming the Cheese
Remove the cheese from the strainer and place it in a bowl where you can press it well. Form small balls of cheese and place them in a bowl of hot water for a few minutes. Alternatively, you can cut the cheese into small pieces and add hot water on top, stirring with a wooden spoon until it homogenizes.

Step 7: Cooling and Salting
After forming the balls, remove them from the hot water and place them in a bowl of cold water and salt. Let them sit for 5 minutes. This step not only enhances the flavor but also helps stabilize the texture.

Step 8: Draining the Cheese
Remove the balls from the water and let them drain for 5-10 minutes. It is important to eliminate excess water to achieve a perfect cheese texture.

Step 9: Storing the Cheese
Wrap the cheese in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container, label it, and store it in the refrigerator. Mozzarella will mature in about a week but will reach its best flavor after 2-3 weeks.

Tips and Tricks
- Milk: Using fresh, unpasteurized milk makes a significant difference in the taste and texture of the cheese. If you do not have access to unpasteurized milk, ensure that the milk is of high quality.
- Rennet: Check the instructions on the rennet packaging to understand the correct proportions, as they may vary.
- Temperature: A kitchen thermometer is an indispensable tool, ensuring you achieve the desired results.
- Variations: You can add fresh herbs or spices to the cheese to give it a unique flavor. Basil or oregano are excellent choices for an extra flavor boost.

Nutritional Benefits
Homemade mozzarella is a rich source of protein, calcium, and essential vitamins, contributing to bone and muscle health. It is also healthier than commercial versions, as it contains no preservatives or additives.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use pasteurized milk?
Yes, but the result will be different in terms of texture and flavor.

2. What do I do if the cheese doesn't set?
Make sure you followed all the steps and that the temperatures were correct. If you still don't succeed, try adding a little more rennet and repeat the process.

3. How can I serve mozzarella?
Mozzarella is delicious fresh, but it can also be used in hot dishes such as pizza or lasagna. It can be enjoyed with tomatoes and basil for a classic Caprese salad.

Serving Suggestions
For a perfect culinary experience, serve homemade mozzarella with fresh tomatoes, basil leaves, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and a splash of balsamic. This simple dish highlights the cheese's flavor and will delight your guests.

By making this homemade mozzarella, you will not only bring a touch of flavor to your kitchen but also experience the joy of creating something from scratch. Whether you enjoy the fresh cheese or use it in more complex recipes, each bite will be a celebration of culinary art. So roll up your sleeves and enjoy the final result!