Saturday Afternoon Platter - Homemade Ricotta and Grilled Bread
User Reviews
5
Saturday Afternoon Platter - Homemade Ricotta and Grilled Bread
Description
The Saturday Afternoon Platter features homemade ricotta cheese crafted by heating full-fat milk with salt until near boiling, then curdling it with apple cider vinegar. After curds form, the mixture is strained through a towel-lined sieve to remove whey, allowing control over the cheese's moisture level. The gentle process ensures a fresh, soft ricotta texture with mild flavor enhanced by salt.
Once shaped, the ricotta can be drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkled with fresh thyme or other herbs, alongside freshly cracked black pepper to add subtle seasoning contrasts. When paired with warm, grilled bread, this platter offers a creamy and aromatic component balanced by the crispbread, making it suitable for a light snack or appetizer.
This preparation highlights the ease of crafting fresh ricotta with minimal ingredients and attention. Grilled or toasted bread complements the ricotta's creaminess with texture and warmth, creating a harmonious combination. This platter is ideal for casual afternoons or an approachable starter for meals.
Ingredients
- 2 L milk full fat
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 100 ml apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Pour the milk in a large saucepan and stir in the salt.
- Heat the milk over a medium heat until it is just starting to boil. Stir it occasionally to stop it burning to the bottom of your pan.
- Remove from the heat and pour the apple cider vinegar around in a spiral.
- Stir gently and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the curds to form.
- Place a sieve over a bowl and line with a clean tea towel (in the past I have used a new j-cloth)
- Slowly pour the curds and whey through your sieve.
- Allow it to stand for 5 - 15 minutes and then refrigerate until needed.
Notes
- Gently squeezing the ricotta in the tea towel controls moisture; firmer cheese results from more pressure.
- Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle fresh thyme before serving to enhance flavor.
- Season the ricotta with salt and cracked black pepper to taste for balanced seasoning.
- Serve with grilled bread toasted to preference for complementary texture.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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