Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound of ricotta cheese
- 4 cups of water
- 1/4 cup of kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 1 teaspoon of black peppercorns
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
Special equipment needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cheese cloth
- Colander
- Large pot
- Mason jar or airtight container
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together water, kosher salt, honey, black peppercorns, bay leaves, red pepper flakes, dried thyme, dried oregano, and garlic powder until the salt is dissolved.
2. Place the ricotta cheese in a colander lined with cheese cloth and set it over a large pot.
3. Pour the brine over the ricotta cheese, making sure it is completely submerged.
4. Cover the pot and refrigerate for 24 hours.
5. After 24 hours, remove the ricotta cheese from the brine and discard the brine.
6. Wrap the ricotta cheese in a fresh cheese cloth and place it in a colander over a bowl.
7. Refrigerate for another 24 hours to allow the cheese to dry out.
8. After 24 hours, remove the cheese from the cheese cloth and place it in a mason jar or airtight container.
9. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Brining time: 24 hours
- Drying time: 24 hours
Temperature:
- Refrigerate at all times
Serving size:
- 1 pound of ricotta cheese yields approximately 2 cups of brined cheese
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 150 per 1/4 cup serving
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of honey, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Instead of dried thyme and oregano, you can use Italian seasoning.
- Instead of garlic powder, you can use fresh minced garlic.
Variations:
- Add herbs or spices of your choice to the brine for a different flavor profile.
- Use different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, for a different texture and taste.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the cheese is completely submerged in the brine to ensure even brining.
- Use a clean cheese cloth for drying the cheese to prevent contamination.
- Use a mason jar or airtight container to store the cheese to prevent it from drying out.
Storage instructions:
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
- This cheese is meant to be served cold and does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve on a cheese board with crackers, bread, and fruit.
- Crumble over salads or pasta dishes.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, can be used as a garnish.
Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of white wine or a light beer.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve with crackers, bread, or fruit.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese is too salty, rinse it under cold water before serving.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use clean utensils and equipment to prevent contamination.
- Store in the refrigerator at all times.
Food history:
- Brining cheese is a traditional method of preserving cheese that dates back to ancient times.
Flavor profiles:
- The brine adds a salty and slightly tangy flavor to the cheese.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or snack.
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Region: Italian