Homemade cottage cheese is experiencing a surge in popularity, especially on social media, where it's often touted as a protein-rich, simple, and versatile option. This increased demand even leads to periods when it becomes hard to find in grocery stores.
Good news: it's very easy to make homemade cottage cheese with just a few basic ingredients. In addition to being economical, this method allows you to obtain a fresh product, without additives, with a texture and taste that you can adjust according to your preferences.
Whether you prefer it creamy or firmer, this recipe gives you complete control over the result, while offering a simple and accessible alternative to store-bought products.
| Summary | |
|---|---|
| 🔍 Information | Details |
| ⏱️ Preparation time | 45 minutes (15 min active, 30 min resting) |
| 🍳 Cooking time | No direct cooking (milk heating) |
| ⏲️ Total time | 45 minutes + 1h cooling |
| 🔧 Difficulty level | Easy |
| 🍽️ Portions | 1 |
| 🔥 Calories (approximate) | 350 kcal |
| Ingredients |
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| Instructions |
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Tips
Use non-ultra-pasteurized milk for better coagulation
Avoid over-handling the curds to preserve texture
Adjust draining time according to desired consistency
Whey can be stored and used in other recipes
Storage
Keeps for 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container
| Nutritional Information per Serving | |
|---|---|
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Saturated fatty acids | 15 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Health score |
7/10 Highlights: Rich in protein, natural, no additives. |
Usage Ideas
Enjoy plain, with fruit, honey or maple syrup
Delicious on toast with a drizzle of olive oil and pepper
Can be incorporated into smoothies or high-protein recipes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the recipe be doubled?
Yes, simply multiply the quantities while maintaining the same proportions.
Do the proportions remain the same for larger quantities?
Yes, the ratios between milk, acid, and salt remain identical, ensuring a consistent result.
Can another type of milk be used?
Whole milk is recommended for optimal texture. Partially skimmed milk works but will yield a less rich result. Ultra-pasteurized milk should be avoided as it curdles with difficulty.
Can lactose-free milk be used?
Yes, lactose-free milk can be used without problems. Coagulation works normally, but the taste may be slightly sweeter and the texture a little softer. It's best to avoid ultra-pasteurized versions.
Can vinegar be substituted?
Yes, lemon juice can be used as an alternative and yields a similar result.
Why rinse the cheese?
Rinsing helps remove residual acidity and achieve a milder taste, typical of cottage cheese.
Can the texture be adjusted?
Yes, by adjusting the draining time and the amount of cream added, you can achieve a drier or creamier cheese.
Can a dish towel be used instead of cheesecloth?
Yes, a clean dish towel can be used without any issue. It should be well-washed, free of detergent odors, and ideally made of a thin, lint-free fabric. Draining might be slightly slower, but the result will be equivalent. The same cloth can be kept throughout the preparation, including during rinsing.
Tip for increasing protein
It is possible to use protein-enriched milk, such as certain ultra-filtered milks, to obtain a cottage cheese that is slightly richer in protein and has a slightly higher yield.
However, it is important to check the type of pasteurization. Many of these milks are ultra-pasteurized (UHT), which can hinder coagulation and result in a softer or irregular texture.
For best results, prioritize protein-enriched milk that is not ultra-pasteurized. If the information is not clear on the packaging, it is best to do a small test batch before producing a larger one.