Homemade feta cheese –Are you ready to elevate your cooking game? Today, we’re diving into a delightful homemade feta cheese recipe that’s perfect for salads, sandwiches, or just snacking on its own. Making your own feta is simpler than you might think, and the taste is incredibly fresh and satisfying. Let’s get started!
Homemade Feta Cheese
This flavorful cheese adds a burst of zest to many Mediterranean dishes. Plus, you can control the ingredients and flavors to make it exactly how you like it. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need and how to whip up this delicious feta cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 gallon whole milk
- 1/4 cup white vinegar (or fresh lemon juice)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Optional: herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary for added flavor
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the whole milk over medium heat until it reaches about 190°F (just before it boils). Stir constantly to prevent the milk from scorching on the bottom of the pot.
- Once the milk is heated, remove it from the heat and slowly stir in the white vinegar or lemon juice. You’ll notice the milk curdling as the curds separate from the whey.
- Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the curds to firm up a bit more.
- After resting, line a colander with cheesecloth and set it over a bowl to catch the whey. Pour the curds into the colander, allowing the whey to drain off. Rinse the curds gently under cold water to remove any residual acidity.
- Gather the edges of the cheesecloth to form a pouch and twist it to squeeze out excess moisture. You want the feta to be moist but not overly wet.
- Transfer the curds to a mixing bowl, add the salt (and any herbs if using), and mix well. You can also adjust the salt to taste at this point.
- Finally, pack the feta into a container and let it sit at room temperature for a few hours to firm up before refrigerating. It’s best consumed within a week or two, but it can last longer if stored properly.
Voilà! You have created your very own feta cheese. It’s perfect crumbled over salads, added to pasta dishes, or simply enjoyed with some crusty bread. Enjoy your homemade creation!
