Homemade Ricotta

Chef Kate's Note:

This is the way the Carraba Brothers make ricotta--except that they use whole milk. The whole milk is delicious and rich, but the fat free version is great too and guilt free. This is wonderful in savory dishes like lasagna and in sweets like cannoli. Note:: The whey (the liquid left when you strain out the cheese) is great as a replacement for water in bread recipes -- tons of vitamins etc. and a boost to flavor.

• Total Time: 4 hrs 20 mins
• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 4 hrs

Ingredients:

Yield: 1 pound

• 1 gallon skim milk
• 1 quart fat-free buttermilk

Directions:

1. Combine the milk and buttermilk in a heavy pot over low heat. Place a thermometer in the liquid, without allowing it to touch the bottom of the pan, and continue to heat until the liquid reaches 175°.
2. While the liquid is heating, rinse some cheesecloth and use it to line a strainer or small colander placed in a bowl, or line it with paper towels and it will work as well.
3. When the ricotta forms on the surface of the milk (be patient--it may take a while), remove it with a slotted spoon or skimmer and place it in the lined strainer.
4. Let the ricotta drain in the cheesecloth for 1 hour. Then place the lined strainer in a bowl and place in the refrigerator to let drain for a few more hours.
5. Store in an airtight container. Ricotta is best when used in a few days.

Reviews

[Chef busy bee]

My goodness was this easy to do. Thanks for posting this recipe. I'll be using it from now on.

[MarraMamba]

Amazingly easy! I used organic whole milk and 1% buttermilk, and halved the recipe (1 liter milk, half liter buttermilk) Talk about EASY. wow..see no reason to buy ricotta again