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Homemade Cottage Cheese Recipe

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4.1 from 56 reviews

  • Author: Mary & Susan
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This homemade cottage cheese recipe yields a fresh, creamy curd cheese made from whole milk, gently acidified with lemon juice or vinegar. It’s easy to prepare on the stovetop and can be enhanced with a touch of heavy cream for extra richness. Perfect as a snack, salad topping, or ingredient in various dishes, this cottage cheese is fresh, flavorful, and free from preservatives.

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 1 gallon whole milk
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice or white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Your Equipment: Ready your heavy-bottomed pot on the stovetop and have a thermometer on hand to monitor temperature precisely.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Pour the whole milk into the pot and gently heat it, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching, until it reaches 190°F.
  3. Add Acid to Curdle: Remove the pot from heat, then slowly stir in the lemon juice or vinegar to initiate curd formation; stop stirring immediately afterward to allow separation.
  4. Let Curds Form: Allow the mixture to sit undisturbed for 10 minutes so the curds fully separate from the whey.
  5. Strain Curds: Using a strainer lined with cheesecloth, scoop out the curds and rinse them under cold water to cool and firm them up, then let them drain for 5 to 10 minutes.
  6. Season and Cream: Transfer the drained curds to a bowl, sprinkle with salt, and gently stir. If desired, incorporate the heavy cream for added richness.
  7. Serve or Store: Enjoy the cottage cheese immediately or refrigerate it chilled for later use.

Notes

  • Use fresh whole milk for the best creamy texture and taste.
  • Adjust the acidity slightly by adding lemon juice or vinegar gradually to reach proper curdling.
  • Straining time can be modified based on preferred curd firmness and moisture level.
  • Heavy cream is optional but adds a richer, smoother texture.
  • Store homemade cottage cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Cheese Making
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://mysimpledish.com/homemade-cottage-cheese-recipe/