Craving feta cheese but looking for a cheaper and fresher alternative? You can make your own creamy, tangy feta at home using just two ingredients: lemon juice and milk! It’s ready in just 5 minutes and costs a fraction of store-bought feta—up to 4.5 times cheaper. Here’s how you can whip up this delicious homemade treat.
Why Make Homemade Feta?
- Affordable: Save money by using simple, everyday ingredients.
- Healthier: No preservatives or additives—just pure, fresh cheese.
- Customizable: Adjust the saltiness or creaminess to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- 1 liter (4 cups) of whole milk (preferably unpasteurized or full-fat for best results)
- Juice of 1 large lemon (about 2–3 tablespoons)
- A pinch of salt (optional, for flavor)
Instructions
1. Heat the Milk
- Pour the milk into a saucepan and heat it over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Once the milk reaches a simmer (don’t let it boil), remove it from the heat.
2. Add Lemon Juice
- Stir in the lemon juice gradually while continuously stirring. The milk will begin to curdle as the lemon juice reacts with it, separating into curds (solids) and whey (liquid).
3. Let It Rest
- Cover the pot and let it sit for 5–10 minutes to allow the curds to form fully.
4. Strain the Curds
- Line a strainer or colander with cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel. Pour the curds and whey into the strainer.
- Gently press or squeeze the curds to remove excess whey, but don’t overdo it if you prefer a creamier texture.
5. Add Salt (Optional)
- Sprinkle a pinch of salt onto the cheese for flavor. Mix gently.
6. Shape the Cheese
- Press the curds into a flat shape or mold them into a block. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to firm up.
7. Serve and Store
- Your homemade feta is ready to enjoy! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Pro Tips
- For Extra Tanginess: Add a bit more lemon juice to enhance the flavor.
- For a Creamier Texture: Use half whole milk and half heavy cream.
- Use the Whey: The leftover whey is nutrient-rich. Use it in smoothies, soups, or as a liquid substitute in baking.
Why It’s Worth It
- Fresh and Delicious: Homemade feta has a creamier texture and fresher flavor than store-bought.
- Budget-Friendly: Save money by using basic ingredients.
- Fast and Easy: Ready in just minutes with minimal effort.
Enjoy your homemade feta cheese on salads, in wraps, or as a snack. Once you try this simple recipe, you might never go back to store-bought!