Making processed cheese at home is quite simple. Here’s a basic recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of grated cheese (such as cheddar, Colby, or a mix)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon butter or margarine
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
- 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Instructions:
- Start by grating your cheese. You can use a single type of cheese or a combination for a more complex flavor.
- In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and let it sit for a few minutes to bloom.
- In a saucepan, heat the milk and butter over medium-low heat until the butter is melted and the milk is hot but not boiling.
- Add the grated cheese to the saucepan, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Once the cheese has melted, add the salt and any optional seasonings you desire, such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or mustard powder. Stir well to combine.
- Stir the bloomed gelatin into the cheese mixture until completely dissolved.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and pour the cheese mixture into a mold or container lined with plastic wrap or parchment paper.
- Smooth the top of the cheese mixture with a spatula, then cover it with additional plastic wrap or parchment paper to prevent a skin from forming.
- Refrigerate the cheese until it is firm, at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Once the cheese has set, remove it from the mold and unwrap it from the plastic wrap. Slice or cube the processed cheese as desired.
- Store the homemade processed cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
This homemade processed cheese can be used in sandwiches, melted over vegetables, or enjoyed on its own with crackers. Feel free to adjust the seasonings and cheese varieties to suit your taste preferences.