Are you a fan of milk kefir and curious about how to make kefir cheese? Look no further! While over-culturing can lead to curds and whey, it's also a fantastic opportunity to create a probiotic-rich cheese. In this post, we'll guide you through the process of making this delicious and nutritious soft cheese using milk kefir. Not only is kefir cheese easy to make, but it's also an excellent source of gut-healthy probiotics. So, let's get started!
Why You Should Make Kefir Cheese
By using extra milk kefir to make kefir cheese, you can enjoy the same gut health benefits while also creating a versatile and delicious product. Plus, making your own soft cheese can be a cost-effective way to get two products in one. If you or someone you know has a sensitive palate or is new to fermented dairy, kefir cheese can be a great option as it can be seasoned to suit any taste preference and mask the strong flavor of traditional kefir.
HOW TO MAKE KEFIR CHEESE
If you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make soft cheese that resembles feta or cream cheese, then kefir cheese is the perfect choice. The process involves culturing kefir until it separates into curds and whey. Follow the instructions below to make your own kefir cheese, and check out the previous section for ideas on how to use it.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 liter of milk
- 2 Tbsp kefir grains
- 1/4 tsp non-iodized salt
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Allow the kefir grains to culture the milk for a period of 12 to 24 hours.
- Remove the kefir grains from the cultured milk and let it sit for another 12 to 24 hours until it fully separates into curds and whey.
- Line a colander with two layers of fine cheesecloth and gently pour the curded kefir into the colander. Reserve the whey for later use.
- Knot the cheesecloth and hang the kefir cheese ball to drain for 4 to 8 hours.
- Place the cheese in a bowl or container and stir in the salt and any additional flavors.
- Store the kefir cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
NOTES:
- Whole milk is recommended for creamier cheese.
- Avoid over-culturing the kefir, but if it happens, let it sit for another 2 to 4 hours before draining the whey.
WHAT CAN YOU DO WITH KEFIR CHEESE?
With its soft, creamy, and slightly tart flavor, kefir cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a multitude of ways. Here are some suggestions on how to use this simple cheese:
- Create a savory cream cheese spread with your preferred seasonings and spices.
- Use it as a ricotta substitute in lasagna for a tangy twist.
- Add it to sweet recipes such as kefir cheese frosting or kefir cheesecake.
- Press more whey out of the cheese to create a firm feta-like cheese.
With its unique taste and texture, kefir cheese can add a delicious and healthy boost to a wide variety of dishes.
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