Cheese is a staple in most households around the world. It’s versatile, it’s delicious, and it’s available in a myriad of varieties. However, not all cheese is created equal. Enter fresh cheese – the creamy, tangy, and oh-so-delicious cheese that is a game-changer in the world of dairy.
What Makes Fresh Cheese Different from Other Cheese?
Fresh cheese is a category of cheese that is made from unaged curd. Unlike aged cheese, which is aged for weeks, months, or even years, unaged cheese is intended to be consumed immediately after it is made. It is soft, creamy, and has a mild flavor that is perfect for pairing with other ingredients. Fresh cheese is also known as unripened cheese or cheese curd, and it can be made from a variety of milk, including cow’s milk, goat’s milk, and sheep’s milk.
Types of Fresh Cheese
There are several types of fresh cheese available, and each one has its unique flavor and texture. Some of the most popular types of unripened cheese include:
Ricotta
Ricotta is a classic Italian cheese that is made from the whey leftover from other cheese-making processes. It has a creamy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor that makes it perfect for both sweet and savory dishes.
Burrata
Burrata is a type of unripened Italian cheese that is made from mozzarella and cream. It has a creamy, buttery texture and a delicate flavor that pairs well with fresh tomatoes, basil, and olive oil.
Chevre
Chevre is a French cheese that is made from goat’s milk. It has a tangy, slightly acidic flavor and a crumbly texture that makes it perfect for salads, pizzas, and spreads.
Feta
Feta is a Greek cheese that is made from sheep’s milk. It has a salty, tangy flavor and a crumbly texture that makes it perfect for salads, sandwiches, and omelets.
Queso Blanco
Queso Blanco is a Latin American cheese that is made from cow’s milk. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a soft, crumbly texture that makes it perfect for grilling, frying, and topping on tacos.
How to Make Fresh Cheese at Home
Making fresh cheese at home is surprisingly easy and requires only a few ingredients. Here’s a simple recipe for making homemade ricotta cheese:
Ingredients:
- 1 gallon of whole milk
- 1 tsp of salt
- 1/3 cup of lemon juice
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat the milk and salt over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches 185°F.
- Remove the pot from the heat and add the lemon juice. Stir gently for 1-2 minutes until the curd and whey separate.
- Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then strain it through a cheesecloth-lined colander.
- Gather the cheesecloth and gently squeeze out any excess whey.
- Transfer the cheese to a bowl and enjoy!
Pairing Fresh Cheese with Food and Drinks
Fresh cheese is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of foods and drinks. Here are some ideas for pairing unripened cheese:
- Ricotta pairs well with fresh berries, honey, and toasted bread.
- Burrata pairs well with tomatoes, basil, and balsamic vinegar.
- Chevre pairs well with roasted beets, arugula, and walnuts.
- Feta pairs well with watermelon, mint, and cucumber.
- Queso Blanco pairs well with grilled corn, cilantro, and lime.
When it comes to drinks, fresh cheese pairs well with light-bodied wines, such as Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, and Rosé.
Health Benefits
Fresh cheese is a great source of protein and calcium, making it an excellent addition to a healthy diet. It is also lower in fat and calories than aged cheese, making it a healthier option for those watching their waistline. Additionally, unripened cheese is rich in probiotics, which can help improve gut health and boost the immune system.
Where to Buy Fresh Cheese
Fresh cheese can be found at most grocery stores, and it is also available at specialty cheese shops and farmer’s markets. When purchasing fresh cheese, look for cheese that is creamy, moist, and free of any mold or discoloration.
Popular Fresh Cheese Recipes
Fresh cheese is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes. Here are some popular recipes that use fresh cheese:
Ricotta Pancakes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of flour
- 1 tbsp of sugar
- 1 tsp of baking powder
- 1/2 tsp of baking soda
- 1/4 tsp of salt
- 1 cup of ricotta cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1 tsp of vanilla extract
Directions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat.
- Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan for each pancake.
- Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Serve with your favorite toppings.
Watermelon Feta Salad
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of cubed watermelon
- 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp of olive oil
- 1 tbsp of balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed watermelon and crumbled feta cheese.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Drizzle the dressing over the watermelon and feta cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve chilled.
Exploring the World of Fresh Cheese – Regional Varieties
Unripened cheese is a staple in many cultures around the world, and each region has its unique variety of fresh cheese. Let’s take a virtual trip around the world to explore some of the most popular regional varieties.
Paneer (India)
Paneer is a fresh cheese that is commonly used in Indian cuisine. It is made from cow’s milk and is similar in texture to tofu. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and is commonly used in dishes such as saag paneer and paneer tikka.
Labneh (Middle East)
Labneh is a Middle Eastern cheese that is similar in texture to cream cheese. It is made from strained yogurt and has a tangy, slightly sour flavor. It is commonly used as a spread on bread or as a dip for vegetables.
Quark (Germany)
Quark is a fresh cheese that is popular in Germany and other parts of Europe. It has a creamy texture and a mild, slightly tangy flavor. It is commonly used in desserts, such as cheesecake and fruit tarts.
Cottage Cheese (United States)
Cottage cheese is a fresh cheese that is popular in the United States. It has a mild, slightly tangy flavor and a lumpy texture. It is commonly used in salads and as a topping for baked potatoes.
Conclusion
Fresh cheese is a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. Whether you’re making homemade ricotta or trying your hand at a watermelon feta salad, unripened cheese is sure to add a creamy, tangy flavor to your dishes. So, the next time you’re at the grocery store, be sure to pick up some fresh cheese and start exploring the world of dairy.
