π§ Simple Homemade Cheese Recipe
(Similar to Paneer or Queso Fresco)
Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins | Draining Time: 30β60 mins
Yield: ~12 oz (340g) cheese
π₯ Steps
1οΈβ£ Heat the Milk
Pour 1 gallon (3.8L) whole milk into a large pot.
Warm over medium heat until steaming (around 200Β°F/93Β°C), stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Do not boil.
2οΈβ£ Curdle the Milk
Remove pot from heat.
Add ΒΌ cup lemon juice or white vinegar and stir gently for 15β30 seconds. Curds (white clumps) will separate from yellowish whey.
If needed: Add 1 extra tbsp acid if milk doesnβt fully curdle. Let sit 5β10 mins.
3οΈβ£ Drain the Curds
Line a colander with cheesecloth and place over a bowl.
Pour curds/whey into the cloth. Rinse curds under cold water to remove acid taste.
Sprinkle 1 tsp salt over curds. Mix gently.
4οΈβ£ Press & Shape
Pull cheesecloth edges together, twist, and squeeze out excess whey.
For soft cheese: Hang the bundle for 30 mins to drain.
For firmer cheese: Place bundle in the colander, set a heavy plate/can on top, and press for 30β60 mins.
5οΈβ£ Finish & Store
Unwrap cheese. Use immediately crumbled in salads, or chill for slices.
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
π₯ Tips
Milk Matters: Avoid ultra-pasteurized milk (wonβt curdle well). Farm-fresh milk yields creamier results.
Save the Whey: Use leftover whey in smoothies, bread, or soups!
Flavor Boosters: Add herbs (dill, chives), chili flakes, or garlic powder before pressing.
Enjoy your fresh, mild cheese! πΏβ¨
Here’s a detailed storage guide for your homemade cheese (Paneer/Queso Fresco style):
π§ Proper Storage Guidelines
1. Cool Completely First
β Let cheese cool to room temperature before refrigerating (warm cheese causes condensation β faster spoilage).
2. Airtight Packaging is Key
β Wrap tightly in wax/parchment paper, then place in:
Airtight container (glass or plastic)
Reusable silicone bag
Plastic wrap (press directly against cheese surface)
β Avoid loose storage β exposure to air dries it out and invites mold.
3. Refrigerator Storage
Temperature: Keep at β€40Β°F (4Β°C)
Shelf Life: 4β7 days (varies with milk freshness and kitchen sanitation)
Placement: Store in the coldest part of the fridge (usually back/bottom shelf).
4. Freezing (for longer storage)
Method:
β Cut into blocks/cubes.
β Wrap tightly in plastic, then foil or freezer bag.
β Squeeze out excess air.
Duration: Up to 3 months
Thawing:
β Overnight in fridge (never room temp!).
β Texture becomes slightly crumbly β ideal for cooked dishes (curries, baked pasta).
5. Signs of Spoilage
β Discard immediately if you see/smell:
Sour or ammonia-like odor
Slimy surface
Pink/green/black mold spots
Excessive weeping liquid
β»οΈ Storing Leftover Whey
Uses: Smoothies, bread dough, soup base, or brine for veggies.
Storage:
β Refrigerate in a jar for up to 3 days.
β Freeze in ice cube trays for 1β2 months.
π‘ Pro Tip: Press cheese firmly before storing β excess moisture shortens shelf life. Blot surface with a paper towel if damp before wrapping.
Properly stored, your cheese stays fresh and safe! Enjoy within a week for best texture π§π‘οΈ
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