HOMEMADE FETA CHEESE

Homemade Feta Cheese image

Provided by Marsha Gardner

Number Of Ingredients 7

1 gal goat milk or may substitute sheep or cows milk
1-2 Tbsp fresh yogurt, i use my own but any plain yogurt will do
1/2 tablet rennet junket
1/2 tsp kosher salt
BRINE
reserved whey
5 Tbsp kosher salt

Steps:

1. In a large pot, add milk and bring to 90° over low heat, stirring often. In another bowl, blend yogurt and 1-2 tablespoons milk together and add to large pot. Remove from heat, cover and let stand for 1 hour (don't peek).
2. Crush rennet tablet, mix in 1/8-1/4 cup water and stir til dissolved. Add to milk and stir thoroughly. Cover and let stand overnight at room temperature or til set. Remove lid and with a knife, cut into 1/2 inch squares. With very clean hands, lift the squares from the bottom of the pan. Line a strainer with 2-3 layers of cheesecloth and add squares. Let stand over another pot and drain for 2-4 hours til the whey has drained (reserve the whey if storing in brine). Turn cheese into a bowl, sprinkle with salt and toss gently to mix. Press into a mold or bowl, cover with a clean cloth and weigh down the top. Let stand overnight. Serve as is or store in a brine.
3. BRINE: Mix the whey you drained and enough water to make 20 ounces. Add 5 tablespoons salt and stir to dissolve. Put cheese in a sterilized jar and cover with brine. Let stand, refrigerated, for 2 days. Rinse if cheese is too salty.