Sweet cheese made at home

Homemade sweet cheese is a delicacy that reminds us of the flavors of childhood and the moments spent around the family table. This simple yet effective recipe will give you the chance to create a fresh, creamy, and delicious cheese, perfect for many dishes, from pancakes to desserts or even on a slice of toasted bread. Moreover, it is a recipe that allows for customization, and each step of the preparation is an opportunity to connect with your ingredients. Let's start this culinary journey!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20-30 minutes
Draining time: 1-2 hours
Total: 1-2.5 hours
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 2 liters of whole milk, with a fat content of 3.5%
- 1 liter of whole milk, with a fat content of 0.5%
- 0.5 liters of natural yogurt, with a fat content of 1.5%

Necessary utensils:
- A large pot (preferably stainless steel)
- A strainer
- Cheesecloth or a clean piece of cloth
- Wooden spoon
- Kitchen thermometer (optional, but recommended)

Step by step:

Step 1: Preparing the milk
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients and utensils. Choose a quality milk, preferably whole, as the fat in the milk will influence the texture of the cheese. Place the 3 liters of milk in a large pot and set it over medium heat. It is important to stir occasionally to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pot. If you have a kitchen thermometer, monitor the temperature; ideally, it should reach about 85°C, at which point the milk will begin to boil.

Step 2: Adding the yogurt
When the milk starts to boil, add the yogurt. Gently stir to incorporate it into the milk. Turn the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for 5-10 minutes. You will notice that during this time, the cheese begins to separate from the whey. It is a fascinating process, and watching the cheese pieces form will make you feel like a true culinary artist!

Step 3: Forming the cheese
After about 10-15 minutes of gentle boiling, you should see that the whey becomes clear, and the cheese separates into larger pieces. This is the ideal moment to turn off the heat. Cover the pot with a lid and let the mixture cool for 5-10 minutes.

Step 4: Draining the cheese
Prepare a strainer lined with cheesecloth or a clean cloth, placed over a pan or a large bowl, to collect the whey. Pour the mixture from the pot into the strainer, being careful not to burn yourself. Allow the cheese to drain for 1-2 hours, depending on how moist you prefer the cheese. The longer you let it drain, the firmer it will become.

Step 5: Serving the cheese
Once the cheese has drained, you can gently mix it with a little salt for added flavor, if desired. You can use it immediately or store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It will last up to a week, but it is so delicious that it may not last that long!

Useful tips:
- Creamy version: You can add a few tablespoons of sour cream to the milk mixture to achieve an even creamier cheese.
- Flavored cheese: Before letting the cheese drain, you can add herbs (such as dill or oregano) for a special touch.
- Leftover whey: Don't throw away the whey! It can be used in bread baking or soups, adding extra nutrients and flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
Homemade sweet cheese is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and probiotics, thanks to the yogurt used. It is a nutrient-dense food that can contribute to bone and digestive health. By using whole milk, you also enjoy healthy fats, essential for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use skim milk? It is recommended to use milk with a higher fat content for a creamier texture, but you can experiment with skim milk.
- What can I do if the cheese doesn't separate from the whey? Make sure the yogurt is fresh and that you followed the boiling time. If necessary, you can add a drop of lemon juice to help coagulate the milk.
- How can I use sweet cheese? It is perfect for pancakes, cakes, salads, or even as a filling for pies. You can also serve it with honey or jam for a healthy and tasty breakfast.

Serving recommendations:
Homemade sweet cheese pairs perfectly with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or with a fragrant tea. If you want to create a special dessert, serve the cheese with fresh berries and a drizzle of honey. The delights don't stop there – you can also try a tart with sweet cheese and fruits for a weekend recipe!

By experimenting with this simple recipe, you will discover not only a versatile ingredient but also the joy of cooking at home. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy the process of making homemade sweet cheese!