Homemade Cheese Block
Table of Contents
Ingredients:
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- Milk: 1.6 liters (6 ¾ cups)
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- Corn starch: 100 g (¾ cup)
- Agar agar: 16 g (4 teaspoons)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Butter: 30 g (2 tablespoons)
- Hard cheese (grated): 200 g (2 cups)
Directions:
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- Prepare the mixture: In a large pot, combine milk, corn starch, agar agar, and salt. Stir continuously to avoid lumps.
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- Cook: Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently. Cook for 16-20 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Add butter: Stir in the butter and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes until the butter is fully melted and incorporated.
- Add cheese: Gradually add grated hard cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Cook for an additional 7-10 minutes until fully combined.
- Cool and set: Pour the mixture into a greased container or mold and allow it to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours until set.
- Serve: Once set, slice the cheese block and serve as desired.
Serving Suggestions:
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- Slice and use in sandwiches or wraps.
- Grate and use over pasta or salads.
- Serve alongside crackers or fresh veggies as a snack.
Cooking Tips:
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- Use a whisk while stirring the milk mixture to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
- You can substitute the hard cheese with your favorite variety, such as cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella.
- To give your cheese a flavorful twist, add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or a pinch of chili flakes.
See also Easy and Delicious Oatmeal Apple Cake
Nutritional Benefits:
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- Protein-packed: Cheese is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Rich in calcium: This recipe provides a good amount of calcium, which is important for healthy bones and teeth.
- No preservatives: Unlike store-bought cheese, this homemade version is free from artificial additives and preservatives.
Dietary Information:
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- Vegetarian-friendly (if using vegetarian-friendly hard cheese)
- Gluten-free
- Contains dairy
Nutritional Facts (per 1 slice, approximately 30g):
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- Calories: 120 kcal
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- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Calcium: 150 mg
- Sodium: 250 mg
Storage Tips:
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- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: You can freeze the cheese block for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
- Tip: Slice or grate the cheese before freezing for easier use after thawing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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- Customizable: You can change the flavor by using different types of cheese or adding herbs and spices.
- Healthier: Free from preservatives and artificial additives, making it a healthier option than store-bought cheese.
- Easy to make: With just a few simple ingredients, this cheese block is quick to prepare and easy to make.
- Perfect texture: Thanks to the agar agar, this cheese has a smooth, firm texture that’s perfect for slicing, grating, or melting.