I used to work on an educational farm in slightly-upstate New York. Goats, Cows, Sheep, Ducks, Chickens, Veggies, and lots of fun. Of the many activities that we taught to children, this Cheese making recipe is surprisingly simple and delicious. I just tried it with my daughter's fourth-grade classroom at and they loved it!
This is a "farmer cheese"; similar to a ricotta or a cottage cheese. The taste is a little plain - most kids love it!
ingredients:
1 gallon of milk
1/4 cup of white vinegar or lemon juice
tools:
pot to heat up the milk (non-aluminum)
colander
cheese cloth or fine cotton (optional)
thermometer
big (slotted) spoon
Simply put, you heat up the milk to 180-190 degrees (just before boiling if you forget your thermometer) stirring as it heats. I have the kids form a line so that they can take turns stirring.
[Things to talk about as this happens: what does a cow eat? (a: grass, hey which is dried grass) How big does a dairy cow get? (a: depends on the breed, between 800-1600 pounds) Why does a cow make milk? (a: for her baby, just like all mammals) How much milk can a cow make per day? (a: depends on the breed, between 4-12 gallons)]
Once hot, remove from heat and slowly add the vinegar while stirring. (again, the kids take turns stirring and pouring little bits of vinegar)
The milk should separate into Curds and Whey (just like little Miss Muffet). At this point all you need to do is separate the curds. It's nice if each kid can scoop some up and put it into the colander which ideally is lined with the cloth.
Put it into small cups for the kids to try (still warm)- I like to give them a taste and let them know that they can come back for seconds.
For more fun and simple "cow facts" (to discuss with the kids) click here to check out moo-milk.com
