Decadent Stove-Top Fresh Cheese Bites

Ingredients

- 4 cups Whole Milk
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 4 tablespoons White Vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pot:
- Choose a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent scorching. Place it on the stove over medium heat.

2. Heat the Dairy:
- Pour 4 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream into the saucepan.
- Warm the mixture gently, stirring occasionally to prevent the bottom from burning. Aim for a temperature just shy of boiling where bubbles form along the edge.

3. Curd Formation:
- Once the milk and cream mixture reaches this point (approximately 10-15 minutes), reduce the heat to low.
- Slowly add 4 tablespoons of white vinegar while continuously stirring. You’ll notice curds beginning to form as the acidity of the vinegar reacts with the milk.

4. Add the Salt:
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of salt to enhance the flavor of the cheese. Allow the mixture to sit for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure maximum curd formation.

5. Separate Curds and Whey:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Prepare a colander lined with a cheesecloth positioned over a large bowl to catch the whey.
- Carefully pour the curdled mixture into the cheesecloth-lined colander. Let it drain for 5-10 minutes until the desired consistency is reached (longer for firmer cheese).

6. Form the Cheese Bites:
- Gather the edges of the cheesecloth to form a pouch, squeezing gently to remove excess liquid. Do this once the cheese is slightly cooled to avoid burns.
- Roll the cheese into small bite-sized balls or shape it into a log before chilling it in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes.

7. Serve and Enjoy:
- Once chilled and firm, arrange the cheese bites on a platter for a delightful snack that's delicious alone or garnished with herbs or spices of your choice.

Preparation & Cooking Times

- PT25M
- 25 minutes

Total Time

- PT45M
- 45 minutes

Type of Dish

- Snack

Keywords

- Fresh Cheese
- Homemade Snack
- Cheese Bites
- Stove-Top
- Quick Recipes
- Easy Cheese
- Milk Cheese Recipe
- Vinegar Curds
- Snack Ideas
- Carb-free

Recipe Yield

- Feeds 4 adults

Calories

- 800 total calories

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