Making cheese at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. With this simple recipe, you can create 1 kg of delicious cheese using just 2 liters of milk and egg yolks, without the need for vinegar or citric acid. Here’s how to do it.

Ingredients:

  • 2 liters of whole milk

  • 6 egg yolks

  • 1 teaspoon of salt

Step-by-Step Recipe:

1. Prepare the Milk

Pour the 2 liters of whole milk into a large, heavy-bottomed pot. Heat the milk over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Warm the milk until it reaches a temperature of about 85°C (185°F), but do not let it boil.

2. Mix the Egg Yolks

While the milk is heating, separate the egg yolks from the whites. Place the yolks in a bowl and whisk them until they are smooth and slightly thickened.

3. Combine Egg Yolks and Milk

Once the milk is hot, slowly pour the whisked egg yolks into the pot, stirring constantly to ensure they are well combined with the milk. The egg yolks will help coagulate the milk, forming curds.

4. Add Salt and Stir

Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the milk and egg mixture, stirring well. Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring gently, until the curds start to form and separate from the whey. This process should take about 10-15 minutes.

5. Strain the Curds

Once the curds have formed, remove the pot from the heat. Place a cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel over a large strainer and pour the curds and whey into it. Allow the whey to drain away, leaving the curds behind.

6. Press the Cheese

Gather the edges of the cheesecloth and twist them together to form a bundle. Press the cheese gently to remove any excess whey. You can place a heavy object, such as a pot or a can, on top of the bundle to help press out the remaining liquid. Let the cheese press for about 2 hours.

7. Unwrap and Enjoy

After pressing, unwrap the cheese from the cheesecloth. You will have a firm, delicious cheese ready to enjoy. You can slice it, grate it, or use it in your favorite recipes.

Tips for Making Cheese

  • Use Fresh Milk: Fresh, whole milk works best for this recipe to ensure good curd formation.

  • Stir Gently: Stirring too vigorously can break the curds into smaller pieces, resulting in a grainy texture.

  • Flavoring: You can add herbs or spices to the curd mixture before pressing to create flavored cheese.

Final Thoughts

Making cheese at home is easier than you might think, especially with this simple recipe that uses egg yolks instead of vinegar or citric acid. The result is a delicious, homemade cheese that you can enjoy in a variety of dishes. Give it a try and savor the taste of your very own cheese creation. Happy cheese making!