Mozzarella cheese slices are a delicious and versatile addition to any meal, perfect for sandwiches, salads, or even as a standalone snack. Making fresh mozzarella at home ensures you get a creamy, soft, and flavorful cheese, free from preservatives or artificial additives. This simple recipe will guide you in creating fresh mozzarella cheese slices that are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 gallon whole milk (preferably raw or pasteurized)
- 1/4 tablet or 1/4 tsp citric acid
- 1/4 rennet tablet or 1/4 tsp liquid rennet
- 1/4 cup water (for dissolving the rennet and citric acid)
- 1 tsp salt
- Ice water (for chilling the cheese)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat the whole milk slowly over medium heat until it reaches 55°F (13°C), stirring gently to prevent it from scalding.
- Dissolve the citric acid in 1/4 cup of cool water and pour it into the milk while stirring gently.
- Increase the temperature of the milk to 90°F (32°C), stirring occasionally.
- Dissolve the rennet in 1/4 cup of cool water and add it to the milk, stirring gently for about 30 seconds.
- Cover the pot and let the milk sit undisturbed for 45 minutes. The milk should have set into a firm curd.
- Cut the curd into 1-inch cubes using a knife or long spatula, making sure to slice through all layers.
- Slowly heat the curds to 105°F (40°C) while gently stirring, allowing the curds to release more whey.
- Once the curds have reached the desired temperature, use a slotted spoon to transfer them into a colander lined with cheesecloth.
- Let the curds drain for about 15-20 minutes. The remaining whey can be discarded or saved for other uses.
- Once the curds are sufficiently drained, transfer them to a clean bowl. Add salt and mix it in thoroughly.
- Begin kneading the curds by hand, stretching and folding them for about 10 minutes, until the cheese becomes smooth, shiny, and elastic.
- Once the cheese has reached the desired consistency, divide it into portions and shape them into round balls or logs.
- To create mozzarella cheese slices, slice the shaped cheese into even rounds using a sharp knife.
- Prepare a bowl of ice water and place the cheese slices into it for about 5 minutes to firm up.
- Once the cheese is firm, remove it from the ice water and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Your fresh mozzarella cheese slices are now ready to be used in a variety of dishes such as sandwiches, salads, or even as a pizza topping.
Conclusion: Making homemade mozzarella cheese slices is an incredibly rewarding process, offering a fresh and creamy taste that can’t be matched by store-bought varieties. By following these simple instructions, you’ll have a batch of mozzarella cheese slices that will elevate your dishes and satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy the smooth texture, mild flavor, and versatility of these homemade mozzarella slices in your favorite meals!