Kneaded sheep cheese in jars

Captivating Recipe for Crumbled Sheep Cheese in Jars

If you are passionate about homemade cheeses, I invite you to discover a traditional, simple, and delicious recipe with me: Crumbled Sheep Cheese in Jars. This dish is not only a delicacy but also an excellent way to preserve fresh cheese with a rich and authentic taste. Moreover, it will fill your home with an inviting aroma!

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes + 1 day of waiting
Number of Servings: 4 jars of 400g

Necessary Ingredients

1. Fresh sheep cheese - 1 kg
- Choose a high-quality, fresh cheese to achieve the best flavor. Look for a product that has a firm yet slightly elastic texture.

2. Coarse salt - 100g
- Use coarse sea salt, not fine, to allow for even absorption and flavor development.

3. Margarine or lard - 200g
- You can use margarine, but if you want a more intense flavor, opt for pork lard. This will add extra savoriness.

4. Cornmeal - 100g
- Cornmeal will be used to seal the jars and prevent the cheese from oxidizing.

Preparation Technique

Step 1: Preparing the Cheese
Start by cutting the sheep cheese into medium-sized pieces. Sprinkle salt on both sides of each piece, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Place the cheese in a container and let it sit overnight. This step is essential as it helps to remove whey from the cheese, concentrating its flavor.

Step 2: Crumbling the Cheese
The next day, take the cheese out of the container and crumble it with your hands or grate it. It is important to achieve a homogeneous texture, and if you choose the grating method, it will help integrate the salt into the cheese. Place the crumbled cheese in jars, forming layers, and press down well to avoid air pockets.

Step 3: Preparing the Margarine
Let the margarine or lard melt at room temperature. If you have the opportunity, you can let it melt outside in the sun to enhance its aroma. Once melted, add a generous layer over the cheese in the jars, ensuring you cover the surface well.

Step 4: Sealing the Jars
After adding the margarine, leave the jars in a cool place to allow the margarine layer to harden. Once it has set, sprinkle the cornmeal on top, which will act as a natural seal, preventing oxidation.

Step 5: Draining the Whey
Close the jars, but do not screw them on completely. Turn the jars upside down and place them in a bowl to allow the whey to drain. This step is essential for achieving a crumbled cheese with a perfect texture that will not sour at all.

Practical Tips

1. Whey: Do not throw away the whey! You can use it to prepare soups or as a base for bread, being an excellent source of nutrients.

2. The Jar: Ensure that the jars are very clean to prevent contamination of the cheese.

3. Temperature: Ideally, keep the cheese in a cool place, but not in the refrigerator, to avoid altering its texture.

4. Aroma: You can add herbs (such as dill or oregano) between the layers of cheese for a more complex flavor.

Nutritional Values

Sheep cheese is an excellent source of protein and calcium. Each serving of about 100g contains approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the fat content of the cheese. It is an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their intake of essential nutrients. Use this recipe as a base for various dishes, from salads to delicious appetizers.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of cheese?
- Yes, you can use cottage cheese or feta cheese, but the flavor will vary. Make sure the cheese you choose has a low moisture content.

2. How long can the cheese be stored?
- If stored properly, the cheese can last up to 3 months in the jar, in cool conditions.

3. How is it served?
- Crumbled sheep cheese in jars is delicious on a slice of toasted bread, with fresh tomatoes or combined with olives and pickled vegetables.

Possible Variations

- Spicy: Add chili flakes between the layers of cheese for a spicy version.
- Aromatic Herbs: Use basil or tarragon for a Mediterranean flavor.
- Nuts: You can incorporate chopped nuts for a crunchy texture and a different taste.

This recipe for Crumbled Sheep Cheese in Jars is not just a way to preserve cheese but also an invitation to enjoy the simplicity and authenticity of traditional dishes. I encourage you to start cooking, enjoy every step, and share the result with your loved ones. Your cheese will surely become a hit at family meals!