Homemade Cheese Block

Ingredients:

• • Milk: 1.6 liters (6 ¾ cups)

• • 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:

1. 1. Prepare the mixture: In a large pot, combine milk, corn starch, agar agar, and salt. Stir continuously to avoid lumps.

1. 1. 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.
   2. Add butter: Stir in the butter and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes until the butter is fully melted and incorporated.
   3. Add cheese: Gradually add grated hard cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Cook for an additional 7-10 minutes until fully combined.

1. 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.
2. Serve: Once set, slice the cheese block and serve as desired.

Serving Suggestions:

• • 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:

• • 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.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • 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:

• • Vegetarian-friendly (if using vegetarian-friendly hard cheese)

• Gluten-free
• Contains dairy

Nutritional Facts (per 1 slice, approximately 30g):

• • Calories: 120 kcal

• • Protein: 6 g
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 4 g

• Calcium: 150 mg
• Sodium: 250 mg

Storage Tips:

• • 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:

1. 1. Customizable: You can change the flavor by using different types of cheese or adding herbs and spices.

1. Healthier: Free from preservatives and artificial additives, making it a healthier option than store-bought cheese.
2. Easy to make: With just a few simple ingredients, this cheese block is quick to prepare and easy to make.
3. Perfect texture: Thanks to the agar agar, this cheese has a smooth, firm texture that’s perfect for slicing, grating, or melting.