Homemade Mozzarella Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make your very own mozzarella cheese, gather the following:
- 8 cups of whole milk (preferably not ultra-pasteurized)
- 7 tablespoons of white vinegar (or lemon juice as an alternative)
- 1/3 cup of salt (optional, but recommended for flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Heat the Milk
Pour the 8 cups of whole milk into a large pot and place it over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching. Heat the milk until it reaches 90°F (32°C) . If you don’t have a thermometer, gently warm the milk until it feels lukewarm to the touch.
2. Add the Vinegar or Lemon Juice
Once the milk is heated, slowly stir in the 7 tablespoons of white vinegar (or lemon juice). Continue stirring gently for about 1 minute. You should start to see curds forming almost immediately—these are the solid lumps that will eventually become your mozzarella.
If the curds seem small or sparse, let the mixture sit undisturbed for 5–10 minutes to allow them to form fully.
3. Separate the Curds and Whey
Line a colander with cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel and set it over a bowl to catch the whey. Carefully ladle the curds into the lined colander, allowing the liquid whey to drain out. Let the curds drain for about 10–15 minutes. Reserve the whey if you’d like—it’s great for baking or feeding plants!
4. Knead the Curds
After draining, transfer the curds to a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave the curds for 1 minute, then remove and knead them with your hands (they’ll be hot, so use caution!). As you knead, the curds will begin to come together and form a cohesive ball.
Microwave the curds again for another 30 seconds, then knead once more. Repeat this process 2–3 times until the cheese becomes smooth, stretchy, and pliable.
5. Season and Shape
Knead in the salt (if using) to enhance the flavor. Once the cheese has cooled slightly, shape it into a ball or log. For extra fun, divide the cheese into smaller portions and shape them into bite-sized pieces.
6. Chill and Enjoy
Place the finished mozzarella in a container filled with cold water or brine (a mix of water and salt) to help it retain its shape and texture. Store it in the refrigerator for up to a week—or eat it immediately while it’s still fresh and delicious!
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh, High-Quality Milk : Avoid ultra-pasteurized milk, as it doesn’t curdle as well. Organic or locally sourced milk often yields the best results.
- Work Quickly After Heating : The longer the curds sit after adding vinegar, the harder they may become. Work efficiently to achieve the ideal texture.
- Experiment with Flavors : Try adding herbs like basil or oregano during the kneading process for a custom twist.
- Stretch It Out : If your mozzarella isn’t stretching properly, reheat it briefly in the microwave or a bowl of hot water before kneading again.