Rediscover Homemade Cheese with Grandma’s Three-Ingredient Recipe (Weight Watchers-Friendly)

Bring a touch of nostalgia and homemade goodness to your table with this simple, three-ingredient cheese recipe from Grandma. This Weight Watchers-friendly cheese is easy to make and perfect for those mindful of their SmartPoints.

Why Make Your Own Cheese?

Making your own cheese at home allows you to control the ingredients, avoiding unnecessary additives and preservatives. Plus, homemade cheese offers unmatched freshness and flavor. It’s a rewarding process that connects you to tradition while supporting a healthy lifestyle.

Ingredients:

  • 1 gallon whole milk (or 4 liters)
  • 1/3 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best results)
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Heat the Milk:
  • Pour the milk into a large pot and heat it slowly over medium heat, stirring continuously to avoid scorching. Heat until the milk reaches 185°F (85°C), just before boiling.
  1. Add Lemon Juice:
  • Remove the pot from heat and slowly stir in the lemon juice. Continue to stir gently as the milk curdles.
  1. Let It Sit:
  • Allow the milk mixture to sit undisturbed for about 10 minutes to let the curds (solids) separate from the whey (liquid).
  1. Strain the Curds:
  • Line a colander with cheesecloth and pour the curdled milk mixture through it to separate the curds from the whey. Gather the cheesecloth corners and gently squeeze out excess whey.
  1. Season:
  • Open the cheesecloth and sprinkle the curds with a pinch of salt to taste. Mix lightly.
  1. Press the Cheese:
  • Place the curds (still in the cheesecloth) under a weight to form a solid mass. Refrigerate for several hours or overnight.
  1. Enjoy:
  • Unwrap your homemade cheese and enjoy it as is, or use it in your favorite recipes.

Nutritional Information (per serving, makes approximately 16 servings):

  • Calories: 80
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 6g

Weight Watchers SmartPoints® (per serving):

  • Green: 3 SmartPoints
  • Blue: 3 SmartPoints
  • Purple: 2 SmartPoints

Tips:

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor and texture, use the freshest milk and lemon juice.
  • Control Moisture: If the cheese seems too moist, let it drain longer or gently press more whey out.
  • Flavor Variations: Add herbs or spices to the curds before pressing for a personalized touch.

Storage:

  • Refrigeration: Store the cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
  • Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cheese in a well-sealed container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.

Rediscover the joy of making cheese at home with this easy recipe. Enjoy a delicious, homemade treat that fits perfectly into your Weight Watchers plan!