Smooth solstice cheese

Smooth Solstice Cheese Recipe - Vegetarian Cheese Recipe from Latvia

Region / culture: Latvia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 8 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Smooth solstice cheese is a traditional Eastern European cheese known for its smooth texture and rich flavor. This cheese is made from farm cheese, milk, butter, eggs, salt, and caraway seeds. It is a delicious and versatile cheese that can be enjoyed on its own or used in a variety of dishes.

History

The recipe for smooth solstice cheese has been passed down through generations in Eastern Europe. It is a popular cheese that is often made during the summer solstice, hence the name. This cheese is traditionally made on farms using fresh milk and farm cheese, giving it a unique and authentic flavor.

Ingredients

1 kg farm cheese
5 liters milk
1000 g butter
3 eggs
salt
caraway seeds

How to prepare

Heat the milk until it boils. Add crumbled farm cheese and continue heating until the mixture congeals into a cheesy mass and the whey separates.
Pour the cheese mass into a double-layered piece of cheesecloth that has been soaked in cold water. Agitate the cloth to drain off the whey.
In a pot, melt butter and add the drained cheese mass. Stir in beaten eggs and salt. Heat the mixture on a low flame while stirring.
The longer the cheese is stirred, the smoother, harder, and shinier it becomes.
Pour the cheese into a moist cheesecloth and tightly tie it to create a round shape. Place a board and something heavy on top to create weight.
Allow the cheese to cool and dry. Optionally, you can rub it with salt. To extend its shelf life, rub the cheese with melted butter.

Variations

Add herbs such as dill, parsley, or chives for added flavor.
Mix in chopped nuts or dried fruit for a sweet and savory twist.
Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to heat the milk slowly to prevent scorching.

- Stir the cheese mixture constantly to ensure a smooth texture.

- Use high-quality farm cheese for the best flavor.

- Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Smooth solstice cheese can be enjoyed on its own, spread on crackers or bread, or used in recipes such as salads, sandwiches, and pasta dishes.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making smooth solstice cheese is to heat the milk slowly and stir the cheese mixture constantly to achieve a smooth texture. Be patient and take your time to ensure the cheese turns out perfectly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find farm cheese, you can use ricotta or cottage cheese as a substitute. You can also use margarine instead of butter if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

Smooth solstice cheese can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Simply wrap the cheese in plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh.

Presentation Ideas

Serve smooth solstice cheese on a cheese board with crackers, bread, and fresh fruit for a beautiful and delicious appetizer. You can also crumble the cheese over salads or pasta dishes for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Smooth solstice cheese pairs well with a variety of wines, such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, or Merlot. It also pairs well with dark beers or sparkling water.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store smooth solstice cheese in the refrigerator in an airtight container. To reheat, simply microwave the cheese for a few seconds or heat it in a pan on the stove until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of smooth solstice cheese contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of smooth solstice cheese contains approximately 2 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of smooth solstice cheese contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of smooth solstice cheese contains approximately 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Smooth solstice cheese is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin D.

Alergens

Smooth solstice cheese contains dairy and eggs.

Summary

Smooth solstice cheese is a rich and creamy cheese that is high in fat and protein. It is a delicious and satisfying cheese that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Smooth solstice cheese is a delicious and versatile cheese that is perfect for summer entertaining. With its smooth texture and rich flavor, this cheese is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy it on its own or use it in your favorite recipes for a delicious and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for smooth solstice cheese. It was a warm summer day, the air thick with the scent of blooming flowers and the sound of bees buzzing around the garden. I was visiting my dear friend Eliza, a woman known for her culinary skills and her vast collection of recipes from all around the world.

Eliza and I were sitting in her cozy kitchen, sipping tea and chatting about our latest cooking adventures. She suddenly got up from her chair and disappeared into the pantry, returning with a worn leather-bound book. "I have something special to show you," she said with a twinkle in her eye.

She opened the book to a page that was yellowed with age and covered in splatters of various ingredients. The title at the top read "Smooth Solstice Cheese." Eliza explained that this was a recipe she had learned many years ago from an old friend who had traveled to far-off lands and brought back the secret to making this delicious cheese.

As she read through the ingredients and instructions, I felt a sense of excitement building within me. The recipe called for a combination of ricotta cheese, heavy cream, chives, garlic, and a special blend of herbs and spices. Eliza explained that the key to achieving the perfect smooth texture was to mix the ingredients together slowly and gently, allowing the flavors to meld together harmoniously.

I watched intently as she demonstrated each step, her hands moving with precision and grace. She spoke of the importance of using high-quality ingredients and taking the time to let the cheese set and develop its full flavor. I could see the passion in her eyes as she talked about the art of cheese-making, a skill that had been passed down through generations in her family.

After the cheese had been mixed and seasoned to perfection, Eliza scooped it into a small ceramic dish and placed it in the refrigerator to chill. She told me that the cheese would be ready to serve in a few hours, once it had set and the flavors had fully developed.

As we sat down to enjoy the smooth solstice cheese later that evening, I was overwhelmed by the rich, creamy texture and the burst of flavors that danced on my tongue. The chives and garlic added a subtle kick, while the herbs and spices brought a depth of complexity that I had never experienced before.

Eliza smiled as she watched me savor each bite, knowing that she had passed on a piece of culinary history that would live on through my own cooking adventures. I thanked her profusely for sharing this incredible recipe with me, knowing that it would become a staple in my own kitchen for years to come.

Since that fateful day in Eliza's kitchen, I have made smooth solstice cheese countless times, each batch better than the last. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of cheese-making that has brought me so much joy and satisfaction.

Every time I whip up a batch of smooth solstice cheese, I am transported back to that warm summer day with Eliza, sipping tea and learning the secrets of a recipe that has become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire. The art of cheese-making is a timeless tradition that brings people together, and I am grateful to have learned from the best.