Take some time and prepare a delicious and healthy side dish to accompany any meal!
The entire process, including preparation, takes just over an hour, and the result is an incredibly healthy food. Fresh cheese is a protein source with high biological value, making it highly recommended for everyone. It helps regenerate the liver, affects blood pressure regulation, and protects the bones.
Ingredients:
- 4 liters of raw milk
- 2 tablespoons of rennet
- A pinch of salt
Preparation:
To begin, pour the 4 liters of raw milk into a large pot. The quality of the milk is crucial here, as fresh, unprocessed milk will yield the best results. Slowly heat the milk over low to medium heat, stirring gently to prevent it from burning at the bottom. It’s important to heat the milk until it reaches a temperature of about 32°C (90°F), which is ideal for the rennet to work.
Once the milk has reached the right temperature, add the rennet. If you’re using liquid rennet, dilute it in a little water first to ensure even distribution. Stir the milk gently in a circular motion, then cover the pot and let it sit undisturbed for about 30 to 45 minutes. During this time, the rennet will work to coagulate the milk, turning it into curds.
After the resting period, check the milk. The milk should have separated into curds (solid) and whey (liquid). If the milk hasn’t fully set, let it sit for another 10 to 15 minutes. Once you have the proper separation, gently cut the curds into small cubes using a long knife. This will help release more whey.
Next, heat the curds gently by slowly raising the temperature to about 40°C (104°F). Stir occasionally to prevent the curds from clumping together. After about 15 to 20 minutes of heating, the curds should have firmed up nicely.
At this point, it’s time to drain the whey. You can use a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to separate the curds from the liquid. Allow the whey to drain for several minutes, but don’t squeeze the curds too hard, as you want to keep the texture of the cheese intact.
Now it’s time to add a pinch of salt to the curds and gently mix it in. The salt will enhance the flavor of your cheese and also help in preserving it.
Once your cheese has been salted, transfer it to a mold to shape it. You can use a cheese mold or simply form the cheese by hand into a desired shape. If you want a firmer cheese, press it gently to remove any remaining whey.
The cheese should be left to rest at room temperature for a few hours or overnight, depending on how firm you want it to be. If you prefer a softer cheese, it’s ready to eat after a few hours. For a firmer, drier cheese, leave it for a longer period.
Once the cheese has reached the desired texture, it’s ready to enjoy! This fresh cheese can be eaten immediately or stored in the refrigerator for several days.
Health Benefits of Fresh Cheese:
Fresh cheese is a fantastic source of high-quality protein. It helps in muscle building and repair, making it an excellent addition to your diet, especially if you’re looking to increase your protein intake. The calcium and phosphorus in cheese also help to strengthen bones, making it a valuable food for bone health.
Additionally, fresh cheese is beneficial for liver health. The proteins and fats in the cheese support liver regeneration, which is important for detoxifying the body. It also plays a role in regulating blood pressure, as the potassium in cheese can help balance the sodium levels in the body.
Overall, homemade cheese is a nutritious, versatile food that can complement any meal. Whether you enjoy it on its own, spread on bread, or added to dishes like salads and pasta, it’s a healthy choice that will nourish your body and delight your taste buds.
Conclusion:
Making your own homemade cheese is a rewarding and delicious process that’s not only easy but also full of health benefits. By using simple ingredients like raw milk, rennet, and salt, you can create a fresh cheese that is far superior to store-bought versions. It’s a great way to enjoy a natural, wholesome food that supports your health and well-being. So, take the time to make this simple, healthy addition to your meals—you’ll be glad you did!
You can find further details on preparation in the video provided.
Source: Kuvaj Uzivo
