Goat Milk Mozzarella Cheese Recipe Made Easy at Home

Making your own goat milk mozzarella cheese at home is a rewarding and delicious adventure that brings the authentic taste of fresh cheese right to your kitchen. Unlike cow’s milk mozzarella, goat milk mozzarella offers a unique tangy flavor and creamy texture that cheese lovers adore.

Whether you are a seasoned cheese maker or a curious foodie wanting to try something new, this recipe is approachable and yields wonderful results. With just a handful of ingredients and some patience, you can enjoy soft, stretchy mozzarella perfect for salads, pizzas, or simply paired with fresh tomatoes and basil.

Goat milk provides a slightly different protein and fat profile compared to cow’s milk, which affects the cheese’s flavor and texture in delightful ways. This recipe will guide you through every step, from warming the milk to stretching the curds, ensuring a smooth and satisfying mozzarella-making experience.

Let’s dive into the world of artisan cheese and discover how simple it is to create your own fresh goat milk mozzarella!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade goat milk mozzarella is a game-changer for anyone passionate about fresh cheese. Not only does it bring a distinctive, rich flavor that sets it apart from store-bought varieties, but it also allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a natural and preservative-free product.

This recipe is designed to be beginner-friendly while still delivering authentic results. You’ll enjoy the tactile joy of stretching the curds and the pride of serving cheese you made yourself.

Plus, goat milk mozzarella has some health benefits, such as being easier to digest for some people and providing a unique nutrient profile.

Perfect for appetizers, salads, or melting on your favorite dishes, this cheese is versatile and fresh. Once you’ve mastered this recipe, you’ll find it hard to go back to commercial mozzarella!

Ingredients

• 1 gallon fresh goat milk (preferably raw or pasteurized but not ultra-pasteurized)
• 1 1/2 tsp citric acid, dissolved in 1/4 cup cool, non-chlorinated water
• 1/4 tsp liquid rennet, diluted in 1/4 cup cool, non-chlorinated water
• 1 tsp kosher salt (or to taste)
• Water for heating and curd stretching

Equipment

• Large stainless steel pot (at least 3-quart capacity)
• Thermometer (preferably dairy or candy thermometer)
• Slotted spoon
• Large bowl for ice water bath
• Measuring spoons
• Microwave-safe bowl or second pot for heating curds
• Cheese cloth (optional but helpful)
• Rubber gloves (for handling hot curds)

Instructions

1. Prepare the milk: Pour the fresh goat milk into your large pot. Slowly heat the milk over medium heat to 55°F (13°C).
2. Add citric acid: Stir in the dissolved citric acid solution gently and mix well. This will help acidify the milk, which is necessary for curd formation.
3. Heat the milk: Continue heating the milk to 90°F (32°C), stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
4. Add rennet: Remove the pot from heat and gently stir in the diluted rennet using an up-and-down motion for about 30 seconds. Then stop stirring and allow the milk to rest, undisturbed, for 5-10 minutes. The milk should set and become like custard.
5. Cut the curds: Using a long knife or a spatula, cut the curds into 1-inch cubes. Let them rest for 5 minutes.
6. Cook the curds: Slowly heat the curds to 105°F (40°C) over low heat while gently stirring occasionally to prevent clumping.
7. Drain the whey: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the curds to a colander lined with cheesecloth, allowing the whey to drain off. Save some whey for later if desired.
8. Microwave/stretch curds: Place the curds in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 45 seconds. Drain off any excess whey. Fold and knead the curds with your hands (wear rubber gloves as it will be hot). Microwave again for 30-second intervals, continuing to stretch and fold until the cheese is smooth, shiny, and elastic.
9. Add salt: Sprinkle the kosher salt over the cheese while stretching to incorporate flavor.
10. Form the mozzarella: Shape the cheese into a ball or smaller portions as desired. Place in a bowl of ice water to cool and set the shape.
11. Store or serve: Use fresh or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Tips & Variations

“For best results, use fresh goat milk that has not been ultra-pasteurized, as ultra-pasteurization destroys proteins needed for curd formation.”

• If you don’t have a microwave, heat the curds in hot whey or water (around 170°F) and stretch similarly.
• For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream to the curds before stretching.
• Try adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano into the cheese before forming for a flavored mozzarella.
• Experiment with different salts such as sea salt or smoked salt for varied flavor profiles.
• Use the leftover whey in smoothies, bread baking, or as a nutritious cooking liquid to reduce waste.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Fresh goat milk mozzarella shines in many dishes. Try slicing it and pairing with ripe heirloom tomatoes, fresh basil, a drizzle of olive oil, and balsamic reduction for a classic Caprese salad.

It melts beautifully on homemade pizzas, lending a tangy richness that complements toppings like roasted vegetables, prosciutto, or fresh herbs.

For a simple snack, serve with whole-grain crackers, a handful of olives, and a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water.

You can also cube the cheese and toss it into pasta salads or warm grain bowls to add creaminess and protein.

Conclusion

Crafting your own goat milk mozzarella cheese at home is a fulfilling process that connects you to the art of traditional cheese making. The unique tang and texture of goat milk make this mozzarella a delightful addition to many meals, enhancing flavors with its creamy, fresh profile.

This recipe is not only accessible but also customizable, allowing you to experiment with herbs, salts, and presentation to suit your taste.

With a bit of practice and patience, you’ll gain confidence and enjoy the pride that comes with homemade cheese. Whether for a casual family dinner or entertaining guests, your fresh goat milk mozzarella will impress and satisfy.

Dive into this recipe and discover the joy of fresh cheese made from scratch!

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