Homemade Cheese with 3 Ingredients

Homemade Cheese with 3 Ingredients 🧀🥛🍋

This simple, creamy homemade cheese is a delightful way to explore the magic of cooking! With just three ingredients—milk, yogurt, and lemon juice—you can create a fresh, tangy cheese that’s perfect for spreading on bread, crumbling over salads, or enjoying as a snack. This recipe is beginner-friendly, requires no fancy equipment, and is a fun way to make something delicious from scratch.

Let’s dive into how to make this wholesome, homemade cheese step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple & Wholesome : Made with just three natural ingredients, this cheese is free of additives and preservatives.
2. Quick & Easy : No advanced culinary skills required—just patience and curiosity!
3. Customizable : Add herbs, spices, or salt to suit your taste.
4. Versatile : Use it as a spread, topping, or ingredient in recipes.
5. Budget-Friendly : A fraction of the cost of store-bought cheese, using pantry staples.

Ingredients

(Makes about 1 cup of cheese)

• 1 liter (4 cups) whole milk 🥛
• 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt 🥄
• Juice of ½ lemon 🍋 (about 1–2 tablespoons )
• Salt , to taste 🧂 (optional )

Optional Add-Ins:

• Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives
• Black pepper, red pepper flakes, or garlic powder
• Olive oil or honey for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Heat the Milk

1. Pour the 1 liter of milk into a large pot and heat it over medium-low heat , stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
2. Heat the milk until it reaches 180°F (82°C) or until small bubbles form around the edges of the pot. Do not let it boil.

Step 2: Add the Yogurt

1. Remove the pot from the heat and let the milk cool slightly, to about 110°F (43°C) .
2. Stir in the 1 cup of plain yogurt until fully incorporated. The yogurt acts as a starter culture to help the milk curdle.

Step 3: Add the Lemon Juice

1. Slowly pour in the lemon juice , stirring gently. You’ll notice the milk beginning to curdle and separate into curds (solid) and whey (liquid).
   • Tip : If the milk doesn’t curdle fully, add a little more lemon juice, 1 teaspoon at a time, until separation occurs.

Step 4: Strain the Curds

1. Line a fine mesh strainer with cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel and place it over a bowl to catch the whey.
2. Carefully pour the curds and whey into the strainer. Let the curds drain for 15–30 minutes , depending on how firm you want your cheese.
   • For softer cheese : Drain for less time.
   • For firmer cheese : Drain longer or press the curds lightly with a spoon.

Step 5: Season and Store

1. Transfer the drained cheese to a bowl and season with salt to taste. Mix well to combine.
   • Optional : Stir in fresh herbs, spices, or other flavorings for variety.
2. Store the cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days .

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients : Fresh, high-quality milk and plain yogurt yield the best flavor and texture.
2. Save the Whey : Don’t toss the leftover whey! Use it in smoothies, soups, or baking for added nutrition.
3. Experiment with Flavors : Try adding chopped herbs, cracked black pepper, or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flair.
4. Storage : Keep the cheese refrigerated in an airtight container. It thickens further as it chills.
5. Freeze for Later : Freeze the cheese in small portions for up to 1 month . Thaw in the fridge before using.

Perfect Pairings

This Homemade Cheese pairs beautifully with:

• Bread or Crackers : Spread it on crusty bread, bagels, or crackers for a quick snack.
• Salads : Crumble it over fresh greens, roasted veggies, or grain bowls for added creaminess.
• Fruit : Serve with sliced apples, pears, or berries for a sweet-and-savory combo.
• Herbs & Spices : Pair with fresh herbs, olive oil, or a sprinkle of za’atar for Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
• Breakfast : Use it as a topping for toast, pancakes, or waffles.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

(Based on 4 servings)

• Calories : ~100 kcal
• Protein : ~6g
• Carbohydrates : ~6g
• Fat : ~5g
• Calcium : ~15% DV

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Cheese is a simple, wholesome treat that proves you don’t need fancy ingredients or equipment to make something delicious. Whether you’re using it as a spread, topping, or ingredient, this cheese is sure to impress with its fresh, tangy flavor and creamy texture. The process is easy, the ingredients are minimal, and the result is a satisfying, homemade product you can feel good about.

The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the seasonings, adjust the consistency, or pair it with different accompaniments to make it your own. So grab your milk, stir in that yogurt, and get ready to enjoy a cheese-making experience that’s as rewarding as it is tasty.