ADVERTISEMENT
Introduction
Cheese and olives have long been a match made in culinary heaven. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or as part of a meal, these two ingredients have the power to elevate any dish. But what if you could create this delightful combination right at home? In this recipe, we’ll guide you through making irresistible homemade cheese with olives—an easy and satisfying treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This homemade version not only guarantees a burst of fresh flavors but also gives you the opportunity to customize the ingredients to your taste. Let’s dive into this simple yet delightful creation!
Ingredients
For the Cheese:
2 cups full-fat milk
1/4 cup white vinegar or lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme (optional)
For the Olive Mixture:
1 cup mixed olives (green, black, or Kalamata), pitted and chopped
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon fresh chopped herbs (rosemary or basil works well)
Instructions
Prepare the Homemade Cheese:
Begin by heating the milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. Once the milk reaches a simmer (around 190°F), remove it from the heat.
Add the vinegar or lemon juice to the hot milk, and gently stir. You will notice the milk curdling. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the curds to fully separate from the whey.
Using a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer, strain the curds from the whey. Make sure to drain out all excess liquid.
Transfer the curds into a bowl. Season with salt, garlic powder, and dried herbs (optional). Stir until combined. If you prefer a firmer texture, place the cheese in a cheese mold or shape it manually and refrigerate for at least an hour.
Prepare the Olive Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix the chopped olives with olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. Stir to combine and set aside for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Assemble the Dish:
Once your homemade cheese is ready and has set, transfer it onto a serving plate. Drizzle the olive mixture over the top, or if you prefer, serve them side by side for dipping.
Optionally, garnish with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor.
Tips for Serving and Storing
Serving Suggestions:
This cheese pairs beautifully with crackers, toasted bread, or a variety of fresh veggies. It's also perfect for a Mediterranean-inspired charcuterie board.
You can serve it as a topping for salads, pasta dishes, or grilled meats for a burst of flavor.
Storing Tips:
Store the homemade cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
The olive mixture can be stored separately in a jar and refrigerated for up to 1 week. Ensure you add a bit more olive oil if it looks too dry upon storing.
Variants
Herbed Cheese with Olives:
ADVERTISEMENT
