Who doesn’t love the creamy, stretchy goodness of fresh mozzarella cheese? And what if I told you that you can make it right in your own kitchen with just two simple ingredients? It’s true, and it’s easier than you might think. In less than 30 minutes, you can have homemade mozzarella that’s perfect for topping pizzas, enhancing salads, or simply enjoying on its own with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs. Let’s get started!
You Will Need:
- 1 gallon of whole milk (not ultra-pasteurized)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of citric acid dissolved in 1/4 cup of water
- A thermometer
- A slotted spoon
- A microwave-safe bowl
Instructions:
Prepare the Milk: Start by heating the milk in a large pot over medium heat. Make sure to stir gently to prevent scorching. Once the milk reaches 55°F, slowly add the dissolved citric acid while stirring gently. Keep heating the milk until it reaches 90°F. At this point, you should start to see the milk curdle slightly.
Curd Formation: Once the milk reaches 90°F, stop stirring and let it continue to heat to 105°F. You will notice the curds (solid parts) separating from the whey (liquid part). Remove the pot from the heat.
Separate the Curds: Use a slotted spoon to carefully scoop out the curds and transfer them to a microwave-safe bowl. Try to leave as much whey in the pot as possible.
Microwave the Curds: Place the bowl with the curds in the microwave and heat it for one minute. After that, drain off any excess whey, and then gently fold the cheese over and over, as if kneading bread, using your hands or a spoon. Microwave for an additional two sessions of 35 seconds each, kneading between each heating. This process will help the mozzarella become stretchy and smooth.
Shape the Cheese: Once you’re done with the microwave sessions, sprinkle a pinch of salt (optional) over the cheese and quickly shape it into a ball or several small balls. Be careful, as the cheese will be extremely hot.
Now, it’s time to put your homemade mozzarella to good use. Whether you melt it over a homemade pizza, tuck it into a caprese salad, or savor it on its own, the freshness and flavor are simply unbeatable.
Making your own mozzarella not only adds a touch of artisanal charm to your meals but also provides a fun and rewarding activity for your cooking adventures. So why not give it a try? Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
