Homemade Cheese with Provencal Herbs

For the Final Touch:

• Fresh olive oil (for drizzling)
• Fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Homemade Cheese with Provencal Herbs

Making cheese at home may sound intimidating, but it’s surprisingly easy, and the results are incredibly rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting your own cheese with Provencal herbs:

Step 1: Prepare the Milk and Cream

In a large saucepan, combine whole milk and heavy cream. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it doesn’t scorch. Once the milk reaches a temperature of around 185°F (85°C)—just before boiling—remove the saucepan from the heat.

Step 2: Curdling the Milk

Add white vinegar or lemon juice to the hot milk mixture and stir gently. You will begin to see the milk curdling, forming curds (solid) and whey (liquid). Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes so the curds fully develop.

Step 3: Straining the Curds

Once the curds have formed, place a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a large bowl to strain the mixture. Carefully pour the curdled milk into the strainer, allowing the whey to drain away. You can save the whey to use in smoothies or for baking, but for this recipe, you’ll only need the curds.

Step 4: Adding the Herbs

After draining the curds, transfer the cheese to a mixing bowl. While it’s still warm, add the Provencal herbs—thyme, oregano, rosemary, basil, and lavender (if using). You can adjust the quantities depending on your taste preferences. Mix the herbs into the curds, ensuring the flavors are well distributed.

If you prefer a more uniform texture, you can blend the curds with an immersion blender or food processor for a smoother consistency. Some people like to leave the texture a bit chunky, so feel free to experiment with how smooth or rustic you want the cheese.

Step 5: Seasoning and Shaping

Now it’s time to add salt to the cheese, adjusting to your taste. You can also add a little garlic powder if you like a garlicky note. Mix the salt and seasonings thoroughly. After this, you can transfer the cheese to a mold or simply shape it into a ball or log using your hands.

Step 6: Resting the Cheese

Once the cheese is shaped, place it in the fridge for about 2-4 hours to allow it to firm up. This resting time lets the flavors meld together and the cheese take on a more solid form.

Step 7: Finishing Touches

When you’re ready to serve, remove the cheese from the fridge. For an added touch of flavor, drizzle the cheese with a little fresh olive oil. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired for a colorful pop.

How to Serve Homemade Cheese with Provencal Herbs

This cheese is incredibly versatile and can be served in many delicious ways. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

1. Spread on Bread: Serve this flavorful cheese on fresh, crusty baguettes or toasted sourdough slices for a simple, elegant appetizer or snack.
2. Pair with Crackers and Veggies: Serve it with crispy crackers, sliced cucumbers, or fresh carrot sticks for a light and healthy bite.
3. Charcuterie Boards: This homemade cheese makes a wonderful addition to any charcuterie board, alongside cured meats, olives, fresh fruit, and nuts.
4. With Wine: Enjoy this Provencal herb-infused cheese with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. The herb flavors will complement the wine beautifully.
5. As a Topping for Salads: Crumble or slice the cheese and sprinkle it over salads for added creaminess and flavor.

Why You’ll Love Homemade Cheese with Provencal Herbs

1. Fresh and Customizable: One of the best things about making homemade cheese is that you can adjust the herbs and seasonings to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a stronger rosemary flavor or want to add more garlic, you have full control over the outcome.
2. Simple and Rewarding: The process is surprisingly straightforward, and the results are incredibly satisfying. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create a fresh, flavorful cheese from scratch.
3. A Mediterranean Touch: The Provencal herbs infuse this cheese with the vibrant, aromatic flavors of the Mediterranean, bringing a touch of French cuisine to your kitchen.
4. Perfect for Entertaining: This homemade cheese is a great conversation starter when serving guests. It’s an impressive, gourmet treat that adds a personal touch to any meal.

Conclusion

Homemade Cheese with Provencal Herbs is a flavorful and simple way to bring the taste of the Mediterranean into your home. With just a few basic ingredients and a little time, you can create a creamy, aromatic cheese that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re spreading it on fresh bread, pairing it with wine, or adding it to a salad, this cheese is sure to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire. So why not give it a try and impress your friends and family with your homemade creation?