Cheese is a delicious and versatile food that can be enjoyed in many ways. However, making cheese can be a time-consuming process, and drying it after it has been made is essential for proper preservation. That’s where tools used to drain and dry cheese come in handy.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the different types of tools used to drain and dry cheese, their benefits, and how to use them effectively.
Types of Tools Used to Drain and Dry Cheese
1. Cheese Cloth
Cheese cloth is a lightweight fabric that is commonly used in the cheese-making process. It is made from 100% cotton and has a loose weave that allows liquid to pass through easily while keeping solids in place.
To use cheese cloth for draining cheese, simply line a colander or strainer with the cloth and pour the curdled milk into it. The whey will drain through the cloth, leaving behind the solid cheese curds.
For drying cheese, wrap the cheese tightly in cheesecloth and hang it up to dry. This method allows air to circulate around the cheese, allowing it to dry evenly.
2. Cheese Moulds
Cheese moulds are containers that are used to shape and press soft cheeses like ricotta or cottage cheese. They can also be used for harder cheeses like cheddar or gouda.
To use a cheese mould, simply fill it with the curdled milk and press down on it with a weight. As the weight presses down on the milk, excess whey will be squeezed out of the cheese, resulting in a firmer texture.
Once the cheese has been shaped and pressed, remove it from the mould and allow it to dry before storing or serving.
3. Cheese Presses
Cheese presses are similar to cheese moulds but are designed for harder cheeses that require more pressure to shape and press.
To use a cheese press, place the curdled milk in the mould and then attach the press to it. Slowly turn the screw on the press to apply pressure to the cheese, squeezing out excess whey and shaping it into a firm block.
Cheese presses can be manual or electric, depending on your preference. They are perfect for making hard cheeses like parmesan or cheddar.
4. Cheese Draining Mats
Cheese draining mats are made from food-grade silicone and are designed to allow air to circulate around the cheese while it dries.
To use a cheese draining mat, simply place it over a container or dish and pour the curdled milk onto it. The mat will allow excess whey to drain away while keeping the cheese in place.
Once the cheese has been drained, remove it from the mat and allow it to dry further before storing or serving.
Benefits of Using Tools Used to Drain and Dry Cheese
1. Better Texture
Using tools like cheese cloth, moulds, presses, and draining mats helps create a better texture in your cheese. By removing excess whey, you can achieve a firmer texture that is easier to slice or grate.
2. Consistency
Using tools also helps ensure consistency in your cheese-making process. By using the same tools each time, you can achieve consistent results with every batch of cheese you make.
3. Faster Drying Time
Using tools like draining mats can also help speed up the drying time of your cheese. By allowing air to circulate around the cheese, it can dry more quickly than if it were left out on a flat surface.
How to Use Tools Used to Drain and Dry Cheese Effectively
1. Follow Recipe Instructions
When using tools like moulds or presses, be sure to follow the recipe instructions carefully. Each type of cheese requires different amounts of pressure and shaping time, so it’s important to follow the recipe to achieve the desired results.
2. Use a Clean Work Area
Before using any tools for draining and drying cheese, be sure to clean your work area thoroughly. This will help prevent contamination from bacteria or other harmful substances.
3. Check Cheese Regularly
When drying cheese, it’s important to check it regularly to ensure that it is drying evenly. If you notice any areas that are not drying as quickly as others, adjust the position of the cheese or the tool being used.
4. Store Cheese Properly
Once your cheese has been drained and dried, be sure to store it properly. Most hard cheeses can be stored in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cellar. Soft cheeses like ricotta or cottage cheese should be refrigerated and consumed within a few days.
Conclusion
Using tools used to drain and dry cheese is an essential part of the cheese-making process. Whether you’re making soft or hard cheeses, having the right tools on hand can help you achieve consistent results with every batch.
By using tools like cheese cloth, moulds, presses, and draining mats, you can create a better texture in your cheese, ensure consistency in your process, and speed up drying time. Remember to follow recipe instructions carefully, use a clean work area, check cheese regularly during the drying process, and store it properly once it’s been dried.
With these tips and tools at your disposal, you’ll be well on your way to making delicious homemade cheese that rivals anything you can buy at the store!
References:
https://www.culturesforhealth.com/learn/cheese/how-to-drain-cheese/
https://www.theprairiehomestead.com/2015/03/how-to-dry-cheese.html
https://www.deliciousmagazine.co.uk/how-to-make-cheese-at-home/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cheesecloth
