๐ง Easy Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Recipe (Stretchy & Fresh)
Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Recipe – Easy, Stretchy & Ready in 30 Minutes
Make fresh, creamy homemade mozzarella cheese with just 4 ingredients! This beginner-friendly mozzarella recipe is quick, simple, and perfect for pizzas, pastas, and salads.
Introduction:
Making mozzarella cheese at home is easier than you think! With just a few basic ingredients and 30 minutes, you can enjoy fresh, stretchy, and delicious mozzarella—perfect for pizzas, caprese salads, sandwiches, or snacking. No special equipment needed!
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ Only 4 simple ingredients
- ✅ No preservatives or additives
- ✅ Quick and easy – ready in under 30 minutes
- ✅ Soft, stretchy, melt-in-your-mouth texture
- ✅ Perfect for pizza, pasta, lasagna, or fresh salad
๐ Ingredients
- 1 gallon (3.8 L) whole milk (not ultra-pasteurized)
- 1 1/4 tsp citric acid (dissolved in 1/4 cup cool water)
- 1/4 rennet tablet (or 1/4 tsp liquid rennet, diluted in 1/4 cup cool water)
- 1 tsp salt (optional but enhances flavor)
Tools Needed:
- Large pot (stainless steel preferred)
- Slotted spoon
- Thermometer (optional but helpful)
- Microwave-safe bowl or hot water bath
๐ Instructions
1. Prepare the Milk
Pour milk into a large pot. Slowly stir in the dissolved citric acid. Heat gently over medium heat to 32°C (90°F), stirring occasionally.
2. Add Rennet
Once at 90°F, stir in the rennet solution using an up-and-down motion for 30 seconds. Cover and let sit undisturbed for 5–10 minutes, until curds form.
3. Cut and Heat the Curds
Cut the curds into small cubes. Slowly heat the curds to 41°C (105°F) while gently stirring. Remove from heat and continue stirring for a few more minutes.
4. Drain the Whey
Scoop the curds into a microwave-safe bowl or use a cheesecloth to drain the whey. Press gently to remove excess liquid.
5. Stretch the Cheese
Microwave the curds for 1 minute. Drain excess whey. Microwave again for 30 seconds, then knead and stretch the cheese with a spoon or hands (wear gloves). Repeat until the cheese becomes smooth, shiny, and stretchy.
6. Add Salt and Shape
Sprinkle salt over the cheese and knead it in. Shape into a ball or braid and dunk it in ice water to set.
❄️ Storage Tips
- Store mozzarella in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For best taste, consume fresh within 48 hours.
- Can be frozen but may slightly alter texture when thawed.
๐ฝ️ Serving Ideas
- Slice into a Caprese salad with tomatoes and basil
- Melt on homemade pizza or lasagna
- Stuff into sandwiches, calzones, or pasta
- Enjoy with crackers and olives for a cheese board
๐ Variations
- Add herbs like oregano or basil for a flavored twist
- Use buffalo milk for authentic Italian-style mozzarella
- Stretch smaller portions into mozzarella sticks
๐ Pro Tips
- Don’t use ultra-pasteurized milk—it won’t curdle properly
- Use gloves when stretching to handle hot curds safely
- Use fresh rennet for best results; expired rennet may fail
๐ฌ FAQs
Q: Can I use raw or goat milk?
A: Yes! Raw milk works great, but ensure it’s fresh. Goat’s milk works too but may require slightly different handling.
Q: Can I make mozzarella without rennet?
A: You can try lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute, but texture may be less stretchy and more crumbly.
Q: Why isn't my cheese stretchy?
A: Stretching requires the cheese to reach at least 135°F. If it’s too cool, it won’t stretch properly.
๐ฟ Conclusion
Making mozzarella cheese at home is easier than you think! With just a few ingredients and some patience, you’ll enjoy fresh, creamy cheese that elevates any dish. Whether you're new to cheesemaking or just want a fun kitchen project, this DIY mozzarella recipe is a rewarding place to start.
๐ท Share Your Cheese!
Tried this recipe? Show off your fresh mozzarella on Instagram and tag @monzoorskitchen with #MozzarellaByMonzoor for a chance to get featured!
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