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–+ servings

Homemade Mozzarella Cheese

Making mozzarella cheese from scratch using just milk and vinegar is a surprisingly simple process yet so rewarding! All you need is two ingredients and no fancy equipment. This homemade version has a creamy flavor, perfect for making pizzas or in a sandwich. Who knew you could make cheese from scratch with ingredients you already have in your kitchen?
Total Time1 hour
Yields1 mozzarella ball
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Servings1 mozzarella ball

Ingredients

  • 8 cups whole milk, half gallon
  • 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar
  • 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon sea salt, adjust to taste

Instructions 

  1. Pour the milk into a large pot and heat it gently over medium-low heat until it reaches around 135°F. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
  2. Once the milk reaches the desired temperature, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the vinegar slowly while gently stirring the milk. You should start to see curds forming and separating from the whey. If the curdling process doesn't start, add a bit more vinegar until it does.
  3. Let the milk sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the curds to fully separate from the whey. You should notice a clear distinction between the curds and whey.
  4. Line a colander with cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel and place it over a large bowl or in the sink. Carefully pour the curds and whey into the colander to strain out the curds.
  5. Gather the corners of the cheesecloth or towel and twist them together to form a pouch around the curds. Squeeze out as much whey as possible.
  6. Once most of the whey has been removed, transfer the curds to a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave the curds on high for about 1 minute.
  7. Using heat-resistant gloves or a spoon, knead and stretch the curds until they become smooth and elastic. If the cheese becomes difficult to stretch, microwave it for another 30 seconds and continue stretching.
  8. Sprinkle salt over the stretched cheese and continue to knead it until the salt is fully incorporated. Shape the cheese into balls or any desired shape.
  9. Place the mozzarella balls in a bowl of ice water for a few minutes to cool and set the shape.
  10. Your homemade mozzarella cheese made with vinegar is ready to enjoy! Use it fresh or store it in the refrigerator for a few days in an airtight container.

Did You Make This Recipe?

If you make this recipe, leave a comment below and let me know how it turns out. I love hearing from you!