Homemade Cheese Block

Homemade Cheese Block: Creamy, Customizable, and Delicious

Skip the store-bought cheese and try making your own! This Homemade Cheese Block is smooth, creamy, and packed with cheesy goodness. Perfect for slicing, grating, or melting, it’s a versatile addition to sandwiches, salads, snacks, and more. Made with milk, butter, and hard cheese, and set with agar agar, this recipe is easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Chill Time: 4 hours (refrigerator)

Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

• 1.6 liters (6 ¾ cups) milk
• 100 g (¾ cup) cornstarch
• 16 g (4 tsp) agar agar powder
• 1 tsp salt

For Flavor and Texture:

• 30 g (2 tbsp) butter
• 200 g (2 cups) grated hard cheese (cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

1. In a large pot, combine the milk, cornstarch, agar agar, and salt.
2. Whisk constantly to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth texture.

Step 2: Cook the Mixture

1. Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently.
2. Continue cooking for 16–20 minutes until the mixture thickens.

Step 3: Add Butter

1. Stir in the butter and cook for an additional 4–5 minutes until it melts completely and is well incorporated.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

1. Gradually add the grated hard cheese to the mixture, stirring continuously.
2. Cook for another 7–10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Chill and Set

1. Pour the mixture into a greased container or mold.
2. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until firm.

Step 6: Serve

1. Once set, remove the cheese block from the mold.
2. Slice, grate, or use as desired!

Ways to Enjoy Homemade Cheese

• Sandwiches: Slice and layer it in your favorite sandwiches or wraps.
• Toppings: Grate and sprinkle over pasta, salads, or soups.
• Snacks: Pair with crackers, fresh vegetables, or fruit for a quick and tasty bite.

Tips for Success

• Whisk Well: Use a whisk while cooking to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth consistency.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella for unique flavors.
• Herbs and Spices: Add chopped rosemary, thyme, chili flakes, or garlic powder for extra flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Ensure the hard cheese you use is vegetarian-friendly.

Health Benefits of Homemade Cheese

• High in Protein: A great source of protein for muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in Calcium: Helps support strong bones and teeth.
• Free of Additives: Unlike store-bought cheese, this recipe contains no artificial preservatives or chemicals.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, ~30g)

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Protein: 6 g
• Fat: 9 g
• Carbohydrates: 4 g
• Calcium: 150 mg
• Sodium: 250 mg

Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Slice or grate before freezing for easier use after thawing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Customizable: Personalize with different cheeses, herbs, and spices.
2. Healthier Option: Free from preservatives and additives.
3. Easy to Make: With basic ingredients and simple steps, it’s an approachable recipe for any home cook.
4. Perfect Texture: Thanks to agar agar, this cheese is firm enough for slicing and grating, yet creamy when melted.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use plant-based milk?

Yes, almond or soy milk can be used, but the texture and taste may vary slightly.

2. What is agar agar, and can I substitute it?

Agar agar is a vegan gelatin alternative derived from seaweed. You can substitute it with gelatin, but the recipe will no longer be vegetarian.

3. How long does it take to set in the fridge?

It typically takes about 4 hours, but overnight chilling is recommended for the best results.

4. Can I make this vegan?

Yes, use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.

5. Can I freeze the cheese?

Yes, freeze for up to 3 months. Slice or grate it beforehand for convenience.

Conclusion

This Homemade Cheese Block is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh, preservative-free cheese. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly versatile, and can be customized to your taste. Whether you use it in sandwiches, sprinkle it on pasta, or enjoy it with crackers, this homemade option is healthier, tastier, and just as convenient as store-bought cheese. Give it a try—you’ll never look back!