Ever wanted to make cheese at home but thought it was too complicated or time-consuming? What if you could create creamy, tangy feta-style cheese with just two ingredients—lemon and milk—in under five minutes? This recipe is perfect for beginners, budget-friendly, and skips the fancy equipment. Let’s turn your kitchen into a mini dairy!
How It Works
This method uses lemon juice to separate milk into curds (solid parts) and whey (liquid). The acid in the lemon acts like a natural coagulant, similar to traditional cheese-making processes. While it’s not exactly traditional feta (which ages in brine), this quick version gives you a fresh, crumbly cheese with a bright flavor that works in salads, sandwiches, or as a snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Healthier: No preservatives or additives. You control the ingredients.
Customizable: Add herbs, spices, or olive oil for extra flavor.
Cost-effective: Cheaper than store-bought feta, especially if you use regular milk.
Quick: From start to finish, it’s faster than boiling an egg!
What You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Whole milk | 4 cups | Base for cheese (avoid ultra-pasteurized) |
| Lemon juice | 3-4 tbsp | Coagulates the milk |
| Salt (optional) | 1/2 tsp | Enhances flavor |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the milk: Warm 4 cups of milk in a pot on medium heat until it steams (about 180°F/82°C). Stir gently to avoid burning.
- Add lemon juice: Remove from heat. Slowly pour in lemon juice while stirring. Watch the curds separate from the whey.
- Strain: Line a colander with cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel. Pour the mixture through to collect the curds.
- Press: Gather the cloth and gently squeeze out excess liquid. Shape into a block.
- Season: Sprinkle salt over the cheese or mix in herbs. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Remember
Use pasteurized milk for safety—raw milk carries risks. If the cheese tastes too lemony, rinse the curds with cold water before pressing. While this recipe is generally safe, those with lactose intolerance or citrus allergies should avoid it. Always consult a doctor if you have health concerns about dairy consumption.
