Homemade Mozzarella Cheese

Making mozzarella cheese at home is surprisingly easy and incredibly rewarding. Fresh, creamy, and perfect for pizza, salads, or snacking, this homemade mozzarella will elevate any dish!

Ingredients:

8 cups whole milk
7 tablespoons white vinegar (or lemon juice)
1/3 cup salt
Instructions:

Pour the whole milk into a large pot and heat it over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from scorching.
Heat the milk to about 190°F (88°C). You'll notice small bubbles starting to form around the edges. Be careful not to let the milk boil.
Once the milk reaches the desired temperature, remove the pot from heat and slowly stir in the vinegar (or lemon juice). This will help the milk curdle.
Let the milk sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the curds to form. You should see the curds separate from the whey.
Use a slotted spoon to gently scoop the curds into a colander lined with cheesecloth. Let the curds drain for a few minutes.
Once drained, sprinkle the salt over the curds and gently knead them together to form a smooth, stretchy dough.
Now, gently heat the curds in the microwave for 20-30 seconds at a time, kneading and stretching after each round of heating until the cheese becomes smooth and elastic.
When your mozzarella reaches the desired texture, shape it into a ball or log. If you want it to be extra soft, dip it in ice water for a few minutes.
Store your homemade mozzarella in a container filled with some of its whey or salted water to keep it fresh.
Enjoy your homemade mozzarella on pizzas, in sandwiches, or as a delicious snack!