What You’ll Need:
- 4 liters of fresh milk
- 1/4 teaspoon of mesophilic starter culture
- 1/4 teaspoon of calcium chloride (if using store-bought pasteurized milk)
- 1/4 teaspoon of liquid rennet
- 1 tablespoon of non-iodized salt
- Cheesecloth
- Thermometer
- Colander
- Large pot
Step 1: Heat the Milk
Pour the fresh milk into a large pot and heat it gradually over low heat until it reaches a temperature of 32°C (90°F), which usually takes about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from scorching.
Step 2: Add the Starter Culture
Dissolve the mesophilic starter culture in a small amount of cool, chlorine-free water. Pour it into the heated milk and stir gently for a minute to distribute the culture evenly.
Step 3: Add Calcium Chloride (if necessary)
If you are using store-bought pasteurized milk, which has been stripped of calcium, add the calcium chloride now. Dissolve it in 1/4 cup of cool, chlorine-free water and pour it into the milk. Stir gently for one minute.
Step 4: Coagulate the Milk
Dilute the liquid rennet in 1/4 cup of cool, chlorine-free water. Add it to the milk and stir gently for another minute. Cover the pot with a lid and let it sit undisturbed at room temperature for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until a clean break is achieved.
Step 5: Cut and Stir the Curds
Using a long knife, cut the curd vertically into 1-cm cubes. Then, cut the curd horizontally in the same 1-cm increments. Let it rest for 5 minutes. Afterward, gently stir the curds with a slotted spoon for another 10 minutes.
Step 6: Cook the Curds
Place the pot back on low heat and gradually raise the temperature to 37°C (100°F) over the course of 30 minutes. Stir the curds continuously to prevent them from matting together.
Step 7: Drain and Shape the Cheese
Line a colander with cheesecloth and slowly pour the curds into it, allowing the whey to drain. Once drained, sprinkle the salt over the curds and gently mix. Gather the ends of the cheesecloth and tie a knot to shape the cheese. Hang it to drain for 4 to 8 hours.
Step 8: Enjoy Your Homemade Cheese
Congratulations! You’ve successfully made your own homemade cheese. Unwrap the cheese, taste it, and refrigerate it if desired. Now, slice it up, spread it on crackers, or use it in your favorite recipes. Enjoy!
With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a variety of delicious homemade cheeses. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you!