MAKING RICOTTA FROM MILK RECIPES

Steps:

• Set a large sieve over a deep bowl. Dampen 2 layers of cheesecloth with water and line the sieve with the cheesecloth.
• Pour the milk and cream into a stainless-steel or enameled pot such as Le Creuset. Stir in the salt. Bring to a full boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Turn off the heat and stir in the vinegar. Allow the mixture to stand for 1 minute until it curdles. It will separate into thick parts (the curds) and milky parts (the whey).
• Pour the mixture into the cheesecloth-lined sieve and allow it to drain into the bowl at room temperature for 20 to 25 minutes, occasionally discarding the liquid that collects in the bowl. The longer you let the mixture drain, the thicker the ricotta. (I tend to like mine on the thicker side, but some prefer it moister.) Transfer the ricotta to a bowl, discarding the cheesecloth and any remaining whey. Use immediately or cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. The ricotta will keep refrigerated for 4 to 5 days.

Steps:

• If using both whey and milk, combine the two. Using milk isn't necessary but does substantially increase yield.
• Gently heat whey/milk to 195°F. Consider using a double boiler to prevent scorching. Stir constantly and watch the temperature carefully. While it isn't necessary to be exact, be careful not to let the whey boil, as it boils over easily and is very messy.
• Remove whey from heat and stir in vinegar. The whey will begin to curdle and some of the curd will rise to the top.
• Place a colander in the sink and place a coffee filter or butter muslin in the colander. Gently pour or spoon the mixture into the coffee filter and allow the whey to drain away. Pour carefully, as much of the curd will likely settle on the bottom of the pot.
• Once the pot is empty, continue to drain ricotta. One hour is generally sufficient for a soft ricotta. Six or more hours may be needed for a firmer ricotta.
• Mix the ricotta with salt, to taste.
• Consider using a ricotta basket and storage container so any remaining whey can drain and keep the cheese from becoming soggy while the ricotta is stored in the refrigerator.
• Store ricotta in the refrigerator and use within 1 week.