Description
This Mozzarella Cheese offers an irresistible flavor and a straightforward preparation process. With just a few key ingredients like whole milk and rennet, this homemade cheese is perfect for quick dinners, healthy meals, and adding a touch of comfort to your cooking. Enjoy fresh Mozzarella that’s great on pizzas or salads!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 gallon whole milk not ultra-pasteurized
- 1 teaspoon cheese salt (or non-iodized kosher salt)
- 1.5 teaspoons citric acid dissolved in 1 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon liquid rennet (single strength), diluted in 1/4 cup cool water; or 1/4 rennet tablet dissolved in 1/4 cup cool water
- 1/4 teaspoon calcium chloride (optional but recommended), dissolved in 1/4 cup cool water
Instructions
- Pour the milk into a large pot and stir in the dissolved citric acid and calcium chloride if using.
- Heat gently over medium-low heat until it reaches 90°F (32°C).
- Remove from heat and stir in the diluted rennet for 20–30 seconds without swirling. Cover and rest for 5–8 minutes until curds set and you can get a clean break.
- Cut the curds into a grid pattern down to the bottom of the pot and let them rest for 5 minutes.
- Warm the curds slowly while gently stirring until they reach 105–106°F (40–41°C). Remove from heat and let settle for 5 minutes.
- Scoop curds into a colander and drain for 2–3 minutes, pressing gently together without over-squeezing.
- Heat fresh water to 170–180°F (76–82°C).
- Place curds in a heatproof bowl and pour hot water over them. Let rest for 30–45 seconds until pliable.
- Sprinkle with salt, then fold and stretch the cheese 2–4 times until it becomes glossy and cohesive. Rewarm in hot water if it stiffens or tears.
- Shape into a smooth ball and place in cold water for 5–10 minutes to set.
Notes
Ensure the milk used is not ultra-pasteurized for the best results.
Curd cutting is crucial for texture; take care to cut evenly.
Allow the cheese to cool in cold water to firm up before using.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 oz
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
