Are you looking to add a delightful Greek flavor to your dishes? Look no further! The recipe of feta cheese is not only easy to follow but also yields a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. Whether you’re a cheese enthusiast or just starting out, making your own feta cheese at home is a rewarding experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for this creamy, tangy delight.
Feta cheese is a traditional Greek cheese made from sheep’s, goat’s, or a combination of both milk. It has a distinct, salty taste and a crumbly texture that makes it perfect for salads, sandwiches, and even desserts. While store-bought feta is readily available, making your own feta cheese at home allows you to control the quality and flavor of the final product. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making your own feta cheese, from selecting the right ingredients to aging it to perfection.
Before you start, gather the following ingredients:
- Whole milk: 4 liters (1 gallon)
- Goat’s milk: 1 liter (1/4 gallon) (optional)
- Chloride of lime (calcium chloride): 1 teaspoon
- Non-fat dry milk powder: 1 tablespoon
- Water: 1 liter (1/4 gallon)
- Vegetable oil: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: 1 tablespoon (adjust to taste)
Now that you have all the necessary ingredients, let’s dive into the recipe of feta cheese:
1. Heat the milk and water to 86°F (30°C). You can use a milk warmer or a pot on the stove. Stir in the non-fat dry milk powder and chloride of lime, and let the mixture sit for 15 minutes.
2. Add the salt and vegetable oil to the mixture, and stir well. The mixture should start to curdle.
3. Line a colander with cheesecloth or a fine-mesh strainer. Pour the curdled mixture into the colander, and let it drain for 30 minutes.
4. After 30 minutes, gather the corners of the cheesecloth and tie them together to form a knot. Hang the cheesecloth over a bowl to let the cheese drain for another 2-3 hours.
5. Once the cheese has drained, remove it from the cheesecloth and place it in a bowl. Add the salt to taste and mix well. You can also add additional herbs or spices at this stage if desired.
6. Transfer the cheese to a clean, dry jar or container. Cover the container with a lid and let the cheese age in the refrigerator for at least 4 weeks. The longer you age the cheese, the more developed its flavor will become.
And there you have it! You’ve successfully made your own feta cheese using the recipe of feta cheese. Enjoy your homemade feta in a variety of recipes, and don’t forget to share your culinary creation with friends and family.
