It's easy bein' cheesy

I think homemade ricotta is a great place to start: this is definitely one of those things that sounds like it took a LOT of work, tastes great and is actually really easy to make. You need some basic kitchen tools and a little patience; the rest takes care of itself. 

Ingredients

• 6 cups whole milk
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons distilled white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, vinegar and salt. Place the pan over a medium heat and slowly bring the milk mixture to a simmer. Simmer the milk mixture for 1 to 2 minutes, you will see curds begin to form. 

Line a mesh strainer with several layers of damp cheesecloth. Gently pour the curds and whey through into the strainer and let drain for 15 minutes. Gather the cheesecloth together and gently squeeze some of the excess liquid from the ricotta. 

And that's it - you're DONE! Homemade, fresh ricotta using simple ingredients. Great to serve as an appetizer, snack on for breakfast or whenever. Toast a crusty bread and drizzle on some olive oil, whatever your pleasure and try to stop yourself from eating the whole bowl! I ate mine on some plain old toast with a little honey for breakfast:

Enjoy! 
xoxo
Chef AP