Cheese is a versatile and beloved ingredient in many dishes, but have you ever thought about making your own at home? You don’t need fancy equipment or ingredients to make delicious cheese from just 1 liter of milk. In fact, you can whip up 1 kilogram of cheese in just 5 minutes! This homemade cheese is perfect for your favorite recipes, including a delicious homemade hamburger. Let’s dive into this quick and easy cheese-making process.
Full Recipe:
Main Ingredients for Cheese
- 800ml milk
- 70g cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 10g butter
- 100g cheese (for flavor and texture)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheesecloth or fine strainer
- Bowl
Step-by-Step Directions
Making the Cheese
- Heat the Milk: Pour the 800ml of milk into a large saucepan and heat over medium heat until it’s warm but not boiling.
- Add Cornstarch and Salt: In a separate bowl, mix the 70g cornstarch with a little cold water to create a smooth slurry. Add this slurry to the warm milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add the 1/2 teaspoon of salt and stir well.
- Add Butter and Cheese: Once the mixture begins to thicken, add the 10g of butter and the 100g of cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese and butter are fully melted and incorporated, and the mixture has thickened to a custard-like consistency.
- Strain the Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat. Pour the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine strainer into a bowl to remove any lumps and achieve a smooth texture.
- Chill and Set: Allow the cheese mixture to cool slightly, then transfer it to a mold or container. Refrigerate for at least an hour, or until the cheese is firm and set.
How to Use Your Homemade Cheese
Once your cheese is set, you can use it in various dishes. For a quick and delicious meal, try making a homemade hamburger with your freshly made cheese.
Hamburger Ingredients
- 1 hamburger bun
- Several lettuce leaves
- 1 slice of tomato
- Your homemade cheese
Assembling the Hamburger
- Prepare the Bun: Toast the hamburger bun to your liking.
- Add the Toppings: Layer several lettuce leaves and a slice of tomato on the bottom half of the bun.
- Add the Cheese: Slice your homemade cheese and place it on top of the tomato.
- Complete the Hamburger: Top with the other half of the bun. Enjoy your delicious homemade hamburger with fresh cheese!
Tips and Variations
- Herbed Cheese: Add fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill to the cheese mixture for added flavor.
- Spicy Cheese: Mix in some chili flakes or paprika for a spicy kick.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese for the 100g cheese addition to create unique flavors and textures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of milk?
Yes, you can use cow’s milk, goat’s milk, or even plant-based milk like almond or soy. The texture and flavor may vary slightly.
How long does homemade cheese last?
Store your homemade cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Can I make this cheese without cornstarch?
Cornstarch helps to thicken the cheese. If you prefer, you can use a different thickening agent like agar-agar or gelatin, but the process may vary slightly.
What can I do if my cheese doesn’t set properly?
If your cheese doesn’t set, you can try reheating it and adding a bit more cornstarch slurry to thicken it further. Make sure to whisk continuously to avoid lumps.