Homemade Cheese in 5 Minutes – Just Milk & Vinegar!

Homemade Cheese in 5 Minutes

Forget store-bought cheese—this incredibly easy, fresh homemade cheese requires just two ingredients and 5 minutes of your time! By adding vinegar to milk, you’ll get a mild, creamy, and versatile cheese perfect for salads, spreads, or even paneer-style dishes.
Why You’ll Love This Cheese
✅ Only 2 ingredients – Milk + vinegar (or lemon juice).
✅ Ready in minutes – No aging, no special equipment.
✅ Customizable – Make it soft or firm, salted or herbed.
✅ No preservatives – Pure, fresh, and natural.

Ingredients & Tools
What You Need:
4 cups whole milk (not ultra-pasteurized)

2 tbsp white vinegar (or lemon juice)

½ tsp salt (optional, for flavor)

Optional Add-Ins:
Herbs (dill, chives, garlic powder)

Red pepper flakes

Black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the Milk

• Pour milk into a saucepan and heat on medium until steaming (180°F/82°C). Don’t boil!

2. Add Vinegar & Curdle

• Remove from heat, add vinegar, and stir gently.

• Within 30 seconds, the milk will separate into curds (solids) and whey (liquid).

3. Strain the Curds

• Line a colander with cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel.

• Pour the mixture in, letting the whey drain off.

4. Press & Shape (Optional)

• For firmer cheese, gather the cloth and gently squeeze out excess liquid.

• For spreadable cheese, leave it slightly moist.

• Mix in salt or herbs if desired.

5. Enjoy!

• Use immediately as a:

  • Spread (like ricotta)

  • Crumbled topping (like paneer or queso fresco)

  • Firm cheese (press under a weight for 1 hour)

Pro Tips for Perfect Cheese

🔥 Best milk? Whole milk works best (avoid ultra-pasteurized).
🍋 No vinegar? Lemon juice works too (slightly tangier).
🧂 Flavor boost – Add herbs, garlic, or chili flakes while warm.
💧 Save the whey! Use it in smoothies, soups, or bread dough.

Ways to Use Your Homemade Cheese

🍅 On toast – With honey or jam for a sweet-savory bite.
🥗 In salads – Crumble over greens with olive oil.
🍝 In pasta – Toss with warm noodles and herbs.
🌯 As filling – For stuffed peppers or omelets.