Homemade Cheese with Unique Shapes

This homemade cheese recipe is a delightful way to explore cheesemaking at home and is perfect for cheese lovers looking to experiment in the kitchen. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, requiring minimal ingredients for maximum flavor. It combines the richness of farm-fresh milk with the creamy texture of low-fat curd, resulting in a delicate yet satisfying cheese. By gently heating the milk and curd together, then separating the curds and whey, you create a soft cheese base ready to be flavored to your liking. Adding melted butter and spices like cumin enhances the cheese's aromatic profile, while eggs provide texture and color. Shaping the cheese in fun molds adds a personal touch, making it a perfect centerpiece for any occasion. The process is straightforward, encouraging even novice cheesemakers to give it a try. With a bit of creativity, every batch of cheese can be a unique culinary masterpiece. Celebrate your accomplishments and share with friends and family, as this charming cheese will surely impress.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 liter Milk
• 600g Low-fat Curd
• 100g Butter
• 2 Eggs
• 2 Egg Yolks
• 1/2 tsp Salt

Spices

• 1 tbsp Cumin

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 Minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Pour 1 liter of milk into a saucepan and gently heat it until it starts to bubble, but not boil.
2. Add 600g of low-fat curd to the warm milk. Blend if necessary to achieve a smoother consistency.
3. Continue heating on low heat while stirring until the curds separate from the whey. If separation takes longer, add a little lemon juice.
4. Once the curds have formed, pour the mixture into a cheesecloth-lined strainer to drain the whey.
5. Gather the cheesecloth ends and gently squeeze to remove excess whey from the cheese.
6. In another pan, melt 100g of butter. Add 1 tablespoon of cumin and let it infuse into the melted butter.
7. In a bowl, beat 2 eggs and 2 additional egg yolks with 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
8. Add the drained cheese to the melted butter and stir over medium heat, ensuring the cheese absorbs the butter.
9. Gradually add the beaten eggs to the cheese mixture, stirring continuously to form a uniform mass.
10. This process should take about 5-8 minutes; overcooking will result in a firmer cheese.
11. Prepare your chosen molds (such as playful shapes) and fill them with the cheese mixture.
12. Refrigerate the cheese-filled molds for at least 3 hours for the cheese to set.
13. Once set, gently remove the cheese from the molds and return to the refrigerator until ready to serve.
14. The cheese can be tricky to remove from plastic molds but is worth the effort.
15. Experiment with different molds to give your cheese distinctive looks and textures.
16. This cheese is best enjoyed fresh and can be tasted for its flavor during special occasions.
17. Connecting with guests over your homemade cheese creation makes for a memorable celebration.
18. Cheesemaking is truly an art form, inviting creativity at each step of the process.
19. Let this recipe inspire you to modify and shape your cheese in countless delicious ways.
20. Encourage everyone interested in cheesemaking—it’s surprisingly easy and immensely rewarding!

Tips

• Use low-fat curd to help the whey separate more easily.
• If the curd is not particularly acidic, add a little lemon juice for better separation.
• The amount of butter can vary based on desired richness.
• Use just egg yolks for a more vibrant yellow color in the cheese.
• Enhance flavor with optional additions like paprika, chopped chili peppers, or dill.

Variations

• For a richer cheese, increase the butter amount.
• Substitute spices to cater to personal taste or dietary needs.
• Experiment with non-dairy milks for a vegan-friendly version.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with fresh bread or crackers for a delightful snack.
• Serve alongside fresh fruits for a refreshing accent.
• Wine pairing: enjoy with a crisp white wine or a light red.

Best Places

• Cheese Bar London - Offers an irresistible range of artisanal cheeses. Location: Camden, London, UK.
• La Fromagerie - Delights with an exceptional selection of unique cheeses. Location: Marylebone, London, UK.
• L'Arpège - Famous for its elegant and creative cheese dishes. Location: Rue de Varenne, Paris, France.
• Bleu Gans - Offers indulgent cheese tastings with a modern twist. Location: Naschmarkt, Vienna, Austria.
• Cheesemonger’s Shop - Sells a wide range of local and international cheeses. Location: Leavenworth, Washington, USA.
• Murray's Cheese - A renowned destination for cheese lovers. Location: Bleecker Street, New York, USA.
• Cheese Boutique - Offers a wonderful selection of local and imported cheeses. Location: Ripley Avenue, Toronto, Canada.
• Fromagerie Sanders - Specializes in authentic and quality cheese experiences. Location: Sablon, Brussels, Belgium.
• Formaggio Kitchen - Curates a thoughtful selection of exceptional cheeses. Location: Cambridge Street, Boston, USA.
• Eataly - Provides an immersive cheese tasting experience. Location: Flatiron, New York, USA.