1. Heat the Milk
Begin by pouring your milk into a large pot and placing it on the stove over medium heat. Slowly bring the milk to a temperature of 185°F (85°C), stirring frequently to avoid any scorching on the bottom of the pot. Using a thermometer is ideal here to ensure accuracy.
2. Add Lemon Juice
Once the milk has reached the right temperature, remove it from the heat and gently stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice. As the lemon juice reacts with the milk, you’ll notice the milk beginning to curdle, forming curds (solid bits) and whey (the liquid).
3. Let It Sit
Leave the mixture undisturbed for around 10 minutes. During this time, the lemon juice will complete its job of separating the milk solids from the whey. The curds will settle, giving you a clear separation.
4. Strain the Curds
Prepare a colander by lining it with cheesecloth or a clean, thin cloth. Carefully pour the mixture through the cheesecloth-lined colander to separate the curds from the whey. Once strained, gather the corners of the cheesecloth and gently squeeze out any excess liquid.
5. Season the Curds
Open the cheesecloth and sprinkle a pinch of salt over the curds. Lightly mix to distribute the salt evenly. Adjust the salt amount to taste based on your preference.
6. Press and Set
To give the cheese a firmer texture, wrap it back up in the cheesecloth and place it under a weight, such as a small plate with a heavy can or jar on top. Let it press for several hours or even overnight in the fridge. This pressing process solidifies the cheese, making it easier to slice or crumble later.
7. Enjoy Your Homemade Cheese
After pressing, unwrap the cheese, and it’s ready to eat! Enjoy it as-is, spread it on crackers, or incorporate it into various dishes for a touch of creamy, homemade goodness.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
This homemade cheese is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of flavors. Here are a few ideas:
- Serve with Herbs: Mix in fresh herbs like basil, rosemary, or chives for a fragrant, herb-infused cheese.
- Garlic & Pepper Flakes: Add minced garlic and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick of spice.
- Sweet and Savory: Drizzle a bit of honey and sprinkle with crushed walnuts for a unique, sweet-savory combo.
- Mediterranean Style: Add a hint of olive oil, thyme, and lemon zest for a Mediterranean twist.
