Cheese-making at home can seem daunting, but with this simple recipe, you’ll be making delicious, fresh cheese every day using only three ingredients. Adding olives to the mix elevates the flavor, making this cheese a delightful addition to any meal. Here’s how you can make this tasty cheese at home.

Why Make Cheese at Home?

**1. Fresh and Flavorful: Homemade cheese is fresh and free from preservatives, offering a richer flavor than store-bought options.

**2. Simple Ingredients: Using just milk, lemon, and olives, this recipe is both easy and budget-friendly.

**3. Versatile: This cheese can be used in salads, sandwiches, or simply enjoyed on its own.

Ingredients

• 1 liter of milk (whole or low-fat)

• 1 lemon

• 1/2 cup of pitted olives, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat the Milk:

   • Pour 1 liter of milk into a large saucepan and heat it over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

2. Prepare the Lemon:

   • While the milk is heating, cut the lemon in half and squeeze out the juice. Remove any seeds from the juice.

3. Curdle the Milk:

   • Once the milk begins to steam and is just about to boil, remove it from the heat. Slowly add the lemon juice to the milk, stirring gently. You’ll notice the milk starting to curdle almost immediately.

4. Let It Sit:

   • Allow the milk and lemon mixture to sit for about 10 minutes. This gives the lemon juice time to fully separate the milk into curds and whey.

5. Strain the Mixture:

   • Place a cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel over a large bowl or colander. Pour the curdled milk into the cloth to strain out the whey. Gather the edges of the cloth and gently squeeze out any excess liquid.

6. Add Olives:

   • Transfer the curds to a bowl and mix in the chopped olives. This adds a wonderful flavor and texture to your homemade cheese.

7. Shape and Chill:

   • Form the curds into a round or rectangular shape and place them in a container. Refrigerate for at least an hour to firm up.

8. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Once the cheese has chilled, it’s ready to eat. Slice it and enjoy it with crackers, in a salad, or on its own.

Benefits of This Method

• Homemade Freshness: Enjoy the satisfaction of making your own fresh cheese at home.

• Customized Flavors: Adding olives provides a unique and delightful flavor.

• Healthy and Natural: This cheese is made with natural ingredients, without any additives or preservatives.

Additional Tips

• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices for varied flavors. Try adding rosemary, thyme, or black pepper.

• Storage: Store the cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

• Use the Whey: The leftover whey can be used in smoothies, soups, or baking for added nutrients.

Conclusion

Making cheese at home with just milk, lemon, and olives is not only easy but also incredibly rewarding. This fresh, flavorful cheese is perfect for daily enjoyment and adds a special touch to any dish. Give this simple recipe a try and delight in the delicious results. Happy cheese-making!