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Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Recipe

Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Recipe

Livy Lane
This Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Recipe is soft, fresh and very satisfying. It gives you stretchy cheese that melts beautifully. Many people think cheese making is hard, but it is actually simple at home.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Cheese / Dairy
Cuisine Italian-Inspired
Servings 4
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 liters whole milk not ultra-pasteurized
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon citric acid
  • 1/4 teaspoon liquid rennet
  • 1/4 cup cold water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Extra cold water for stretching

Instructions
 

Prepare the Milk

  • Pour the milk into a large pot. Heat it slowly on medium flame. Stir gently to avoid burning. Use a thermometer to reach about 32°C. This is the perfect temperature for curd formation.

Add Citric Acid

  • Dissolve citric acid in a small amount of water. Pour it into the warm milk slowly. Stir gently for even mixing. This step helps milk prepare for curdling and creates smooth texture.

Add Rennet

  • Mix rennet in cold water. Add it to the milk and stir for 30 seconds. Then stop stirring completely. Cover the pot and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. The milk will start to set.

Cut the Curds

  • Once the milk has set like soft jelly, cut it into small cubes. Use a knife to make even cuts. This helps whey separate from curds and creates proper cheese texture.

Heat the Curds

  • Slowly heat the curds again while stirring gently. Keep temperature around 40°C. You will see curds tightening and whey separating. This step builds the structure of your Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Recipe.

Drain and Shape

  • Use a slotted spoon to remove curds from whey. Place them in a bowl. Press gently to remove extra liquid. The curds will start forming a soft cheese mass.

Stretch the Cheese

  • Heat curds in microwave for a few seconds or in hot water. Stretch and fold them using hands or spoon. Repeat until smooth and shiny. Add salt while stretching for flavor.

Final Cooling

  • Shape the mozzarella into balls. Place them in cold water for a few minutes. This helps the cheese set properly. Now your fresh homemade mozzarella is ready to enjoy.

Notes

  • Use fresh whole milk for best results
  • Do not overheat the milk
  • Wear gloves for hot stretching
  • Add herbs like basil for flavor
  • Use immediately for best texture
  • Store in light salt water for freshness
Keyword Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Recipe