What is Ricotta Salata?
Ricotta salata is a popular Italian cheese made from the whey of sheep, cow, or goat milk. The cheese is aged for several months, resulting in a firm and crumbly texture that makes it easy to grate. Ricotta salata is known for its mild and slightly salty taste, making it a great addition to both savory and sweet dishes.
What You Will Need
- 1 gallon of sheep, cow, or goat milk
- 1/4 cup of white distilled vinegar
- Cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer
- Thermometer
- Cheese mold (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to make your own grated ricotta salata:
- Pour the milk into a large pot and heat it over medium heat until it reaches a temperature of 185°F (85°C). Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Once the milk reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the heat and slowly pour in the vinegar. Stir gently to combine.
- Let the mixture sit undisturbed for 10 minutes to allow the curds to form. During this time, the curds will separate from the whey.
- Line a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a large bowl and carefully pour the curds into the strainer. Allow the whey to drain off completely, which will take approximately 1-2 hours.
- If desired, you can shape the drained curds into a cheese mold to give it a more defined shape. Place the mold in the strainer, add the curds, and press gently to remove any remaining whey.
- Once the cheese has fully drained and reached room temperature, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it age for at least 2 weeks. This will allow the flavors to develop and the cheese to firm up.
- After the aging process is complete, remove the cheese from the refrigerator and grate it using a box grater or a microplane. Use the grated ricotta salata to enhance the flavor of your favorite dishes.
Enjoy the creamy and slightly salty taste of your homemade grated ricotta salata! This versatile cheese can be used as a topping for salads, pasta, or even desserts like fruit tarts. Experiment with different dishes and enjoy the unique flavor that this cheese brings.
Now that you know how to make grated ricotta salata, go ahead and impress your family and friends with your newfound cheesemaking skills. Bon appétit!