What To Know
- Indulge in the creamy, velvety goodness of homemade ricotta cheese, crafted with just a few simple ingredients and the magic of lemon juice.
- Zest a lemon and add it to the curds for a bright citrus flavor.
- Add a touch of honey or maple syrup to the curds for a sweet and creamy treat.
Indulge in the creamy, velvety goodness of homemade ricotta cheese, crafted with just a few simple ingredients and the magic of lemon juice. Follow our comprehensive guide to master the art of making ricotta cheese with lemon juice and elevate your culinary creations.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups (500ml) whole milk
- 1/2 cup (125ml) heavy cream (optional)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
Equipment
- Large saucepan or Dutch oven
- Fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth-lined colander
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Heat the Milk
In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, combine the whole milk and heavy cream (if using). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Add Lemon Juice
Once the milk mixture is simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat and gradually whisk in the lemon juice. The milk will start to curdle and separate into curds and whey.
3. Stir and Hold
Continue stirring the mixture gently for 5-7 minutes, or until the curds have become firm and the whey is clear.
4. Strain the Curds
Line a fine-mesh sieve or colander with cheesecloth. Pour the curds and whey mixture into the sieve and allow the whey to drain off.
5. Season and Cool
Once most of the whey has drained, transfer the curds to a bowl. Stir in the fine sea salt to taste. Allow the ricotta to cool to room temperature.
6. Store
Transfer the ricotta cheese to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep for up to 5 days.
Tips for Perfect Ricotta
- Use high-quality whole milk for a richer flavor and creamier texture.
- Do not overcook the curds, as they will become tough.
- If you don’t have lemon juice, you can use white vinegar instead.
- For a tangier ricotta, add more lemon juice to taste.
- Reserve the whey for use in other recipes, such as baking or making ricotta salata.
Variations
- Herb-Infused Ricotta: Add fresh herbs, such as basil, oregano, or thyme, to the curds for an aromatic twist.
- Lemon-Zest Ricotta: Zest a lemon and add it to the curds for a bright citrus flavor.
- Sweet Ricotta: Add a touch of honey or maple syrup to the curds for a sweet and creamy treat.
How to Use Ricotta Cheese
- Spread on toast or crackers
- Fill pasta shells or ravioli
- Use in lasagna or other baked dishes
- Top pizzas or salads
- Make ricotta pancakes or waffles
The Final Touches
Congratulations! You’ve now mastered the art of making ricotta cheese with lemon juice. Enjoy the fresh, homemade goodness in your favorite recipes or simply savor it on its own.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. Why is my ricotta cheese grainy?
Overcooking the curds or using low-quality milk can result in a grainy texture.
2. Can I use skim milk to make ricotta cheese?
Yes, but the resulting ricotta will be less creamy and flavorful.
3. How can I make ricotta cheese without lemon juice?
You can use white vinegar or citric acid as a substitute for lemon juice.
