Cottage Cheese Recipe: A Classic Dairy Delight
This homemade cottage cheese recipe is simple, nutritious, and customizable. Made with just a few basic ingredients whole milk, vinegar (or lemon juice), salt, and heavy cream (optional) you can enjoy fresh, creamy cottage cheese in a matter of hours. Perfect for snacks, salads, or as a filling for savory dishes, this versatile ingredient is both high in protein and low in fat, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander or strainer
- Cheesecloth or clean kitchen towel
- Medium bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Clean cloth (for covering)
Ingredients
- 1 gallon whole milk non-ultra-pasteurized, fresh
- ½ cup white vinegar or lemon juice for curdling
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ¼ cup heavy cream optional for creamier texture
Instructions
- Heat the Milk: Pour the milk into a large pot and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching, until it reaches about 120°F (50°C).
- Add the Acid: Remove from heat and gradually stir in the vinegar or lemon juice. Stir gently as curds begin to form.
- Let It Rest: Cover the pot with a clean cloth and let it sit undisturbed for 30 minutes for the curds to fully form.
- Strain the Curds: Pour the curds and whey into a colander lined with cheesecloth. Let the whey drain off for 1-2 hours, depending on your preferred curd texture.
- Rinse and Season: Rinse the curds under cold water to remove excess whey, then stir in salt. Add heavy cream for a richer, creamier texture if desired.
- Serve or Store: Transfer to a container and store in the refrigerator. Consume within 5 days.
Notes
- The curd size can be adjusted by the amount of draining time. Shorter draining gives creamier curds, while longer draining gives firmer curds.
- Vinegar creates a tangier flavor, while lemon juice provides a milder taste.
- Don’t throw away the whey! It can be used in smoothies, baking, or soups.
Twists and Variations:
- Herbed Cottage Cheese: Add fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill for extra flavor.
- Flavored Cottage Cheese: Sweeten with honey or maple syrup, and spice it with cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Vegan Version: Use tofu or cashews blended with water as a dairy-free alternative.
- Whipped Cottage Cheese: Blend until smooth for a spreadable version.
Tips for Perfecting:
- Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest milk and acid to ensure the best flavor.
- Patience: Let the curds drain thoroughly for the best texture.
- Experiment: Try adding spices, sweeteners, or herbs to customize the flavor.
