FROMAGE FRAIS

Instructions

1. Heat the Milk:

In a medium saucepan, pour the whole milk and set it over medium heat. Slowly warm the milk, stirring occasionally to prevent it from burning at the bottom. Heat the milk to about 180°F (82°C), just below boiling, then remove it from the heat. Heating the milk helps to denature the proteins and allows the curds to form properly.

2. Add the Acid:

Once the milk is heated, add the white vinegar or lemon juice and stir gently. The acid will help to curdle the milk and separate it into curds (solid) and whey (liquid). If you’re using yogurt or buttermilk as a starter, add it now as well, stirring to combine. Let the milk sit undisturbed for 10-15 minutes to allow the curds to form.

3. Drain the Curds:

After the curds have formed, you should see the milk separate into two parts—curds and whey. Place a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a large bowl or another pot. Pour the curds and whey through the strainer to separate the curds from the liquid whey. The liquid whey can be saved for other uses (such as in smoothies or bread making) or discarded.

4. Rinse and Drain:

Gently rinse the curds under cold water to help remove any residual whey and cool them down. This helps to stop the curding process and gives the cheese a clean, fresh taste. If you like a thicker texture, you can let the curds drain for longer, or if you prefer a softer consistency, drain for a shorter time.

5. Blend to Smoothness:

Transfer the curds to a food processor or blender. Add the salt (if using) and blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes. The texture should resemble a thick, spreadable cream cheese. If you prefer a lighter consistency, you can add a small amount of milk or water until you reach the desired thickness.

6. Chill and Serve:

Once your Fromage Frais has reached a smooth and creamy texture, transfer it to a clean container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to develop and the texture to set. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 5-7 days.

How to Enjoy Fromage Frais:

Fromage Frais is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a wide range of dishes. Here are a few ways to incorporate this fresh cheese into your meals:

1. As a Spread: Spread it on toast, bagels, or crackers for a simple yet delicious snack. You can add honey or jam for a sweet twist, or spread it with fresh herbs and garlic for a savory option.
2. With Fruit: Fromage Frais pairs beautifully with fresh fruits like berries, peaches, or figs. Top it with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a light and refreshing dessert.
3. In Salads: Use Fromage Frais as a creamy dressing for salads, or dollop it onto vegetable-based salads for a rich contrast to the crisp veggies.
4. In Baking: Incorporate Fromage Frais into cakes, muffins, or scones as a substitute for cream cheese or yogurt. It adds a tangy creaminess that works beautifully in both sweet and savory baked goods.
5. In Sauces: Use it to make creamy sauces for pasta, or mix it with fresh herbs to create a rich dip for raw vegetables or bread.

Why You’ll Love Fromage Frais:

Fromage Frais is a simple yet delicious cheese that adds a fresh, creamy dimension to your cooking. Unlike heavier cheeses, it has a light, slightly tangy flavor that enhances without overpowering. It’s also much lower in fat than many other cheeses, making it a great option for those looking for a healthier alternative.

Making Fromage Frais at home allows you to customize the flavor and texture to your liking, and the process is incredibly easy to follow. It’s a fun and rewarding way to bring something new to your kitchen and try your hand at making fresh cheese.

Whether you’re spreading it on a piece of toast, using it in a dessert, or adding it to a savory dish, Fromage Frais is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. It’s fresh, versatile, and absolutely delicious—perfect for any time of the year!