Natural cheese made from milk

Natural Cheese from Milk - A Simple and Delicious Recipe

*Our kitchen story begins with a traditional recipe, passed down through generations, that transforms a simple ingredient - milk - into a delicious and healthy natural cheese. This recipe not only reminds us of childhood but is also an excellent option for little ones' meals. Whether served as an appetizer, in sandwiches, or as an ingredient in various dishes, natural cheese will add a special touch to every meal. Let's get started!*

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: Approximately 8

Ingredients:
- 6 liters of cow's milk (ideally fresh, farm milk for an authentic taste)
- 4 tablespoons of vinegar (apple cider vinegar is an excellent choice for a subtler flavor)
- 1 tablespoon of sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the milk
Start by pouring the 6 liters of milk into a large pot. Choose a pot with a thick bottom to prevent the milk from sticking and burning. Place the pot over medium heat and wait for it to warm up. It is important not to leave the milk unattended, as it can foam and overflow.

2. Adding the ingredients
When you see the milk starting to heat and forming small bubbles at the edges (almost at boiling point), add the 4 tablespoons of vinegar. Gently stir with a wooden spoon for about a minute. Then, add the tablespoon of sugar, stirring again. The vinegar will help curdle the milk, and the sugar will add a touch of sweetness.

3. Separating the whey
Once the mixture starts to curdle, turn off the heat. Use a large strainer placed over a basin (so that the whey can drain freely). Carefully pour the mixture from the pot into the strainer. Let it drain for 20 minutes.

4. Shaping the cheese
After 20 minutes, turn the cheese in the strainer to give it an even shape. Let it drain for another 10 minutes. This step is essential for achieving the perfect texture.

5. Serving
Once the cheese has drained, you can transfer it to a wide plate. You can serve it immediately or keep it in the fridge for later. It is delicious both plain and combined with various spices or herbs.

Practical Tips:

- The milk: Choose whole, fresh milk, which will give the cheese a creamy texture. Avoid UHT milk, as it will not curdle as well.
- The vinegar: Experiment with different types of vinegar to modify the cheese's flavor. White wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar can add interesting nuances.
- The sugar: You can omit the sugar if you prefer a savory version. You can also add spices like salt, dill, or cumin to create a flavored cheese.

Nutritional Benefits:
Natural cheese is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and probiotics, benefiting bone health and the digestive system. It is a healthy option for children, having a lower fat content compared to other dairy products.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I store the cheese in the fridge?
Yes, the cheese can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing odors from the fridge.

- Can I use soy or almond milk?
This recipe is optimized for cow's milk. Other types of milk may behave differently during the curdling process.

- How can I use the cheese obtained?
You can use the cheese as a filling for sandwiches, in salads, or as an ingredient in various culinary dishes, such as pies, soups, or even pizza.

Possible Variations:

- With herbs: Add dill or basil to the milk mixture for a cheese with Mediterranean flavors.
- With spices: Season the cheese with a bit of salt and pepper for a simple yet tasty version.
- With fruits: Serve the cheese with slices of fresh fruit or jam for a delicious and healthy breakfast.

Serving Suggestion:
For a special culinary experience, serve the cheese with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil, drizzled with a little olive oil. This combination will add a pleasant contrast of colors and flavors.

Now it's time to try this simple recipe for natural cheese from milk! It will take you back in time, reminding you of moments spent in grandma's kitchen. Savor every bite and enjoy the health benefits it offers!