How To Make Homemade German Quark Cheese Oma S Recipe
If you’ve ever strolled through a European market or savored a traditional German dessert, you may have come across the delightfully creamy and tangy German Quark cheese. This versatile dairy staple is not only delicious on its own but also serves as a key ingredient in many German dishes. Today, I’ll guide you through making your own homemade German Quark cheese using Oma’s cherished recipe. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll soon be enjoying this authentic treat straight from your own kitchen.
**Homemade German Quark Cheese – Oma’s Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 gallon whole milk
– 1 cup buttermilk
– A pinch of salt
– Cheese cloth
– Large mixing bowl
– Colander
– Heavy-bottomed pot
– Thermometer
**Instructions:**
1. **Preparing the Milk Mixture:**
– Pour the whole milk into a heavy-bottomed pot and heat it over medium-low flame until it reaches 185°F (85°C), stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
– Remove the pot from heat and allow the milk to cool to 86°F (30°C).
2. **Creating the Curds:**
– Gently pour buttermilk into the lukewarm milk, stirring lightly to combine. Let the mixture sit undisturbed for 10-15 minutes to allow the curds to form. You will notice the milk starting to thicken and separate into curds and whey.
3. **Draining the Curds:**
– Line a colander with a double layer of cheesecloth and place it over a large mixing bowl to catch the whey.
– Carefully ladle the curds into the cheesecloth-lined colander, allowing the whey to drain out. Gather the edges of the cheesecloth and tie them together to form a pouch.
4. **Pressing and Draining:**
– Hang the cheesecloth pouch over the mixing bowl, ensuring that there is enough clearance for the whey to continue dripping out. Allow the curds to drain for 12-24 hours, depending on the desired consistency of your Quark cheese. The longer you drain it, the thicker the cheese will be.
5. **Finishing Touches:**
– Once the Quark has reached your desired consistency, transfer it to an airtight container and add a pinch of salt to taste. You can enjoy the Quark immediately or refrigerate it for later use.
Homemade German Quark cheese is perfect for spreading on bread, blending into creamy dips, or sweetening with honey and fresh fruit for a delightful dessert. The versatility of this cheese makes it a must-have in any kitchen, adding a touch of European flair to your culinary creations.
So, why not channel your inner Oma and whip up a batch of this delectable cheese at home? With its rich, creamy texture and tangy flavor, your homemade German Quark will elevate your dishes and delight your taste buds. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor a taste of Germany right in your own cozy kitchen. Cheers to homemade goodness!