let's Know about the exquisite flavors of Portugal through Queijo da Serra or Estrela cheese,a luxuriously creamy cheese from the scenic Serra daEstrela region.

Delight in its unique taste, crafted with artisanal methods that reflect the lush surroundings. Explore why this renowned cheese is beloved by food lovers and adventurers alike.

Ingredients:

  - 2 gallons (7.6 liters) of whole cow's milk

  - 1/4 teaspoon of mesophilic culture

  - 1/4 teaspoon of liquid rennet diluted in 1/4 cup of non-chlorinated water

  - Cheese salt (optional)

Instructions:

1-Heat the Milk: Pour the milk into a large pot and heat it gradually over low heat until it reaches about 90°F (32°C).

2-Add Culture: Sprinkle the mesophilic culture over the surface of the milk and let it rehydrate for a minute. Then gently stir it into the milk using an up-and-down motion for about 1 minute.

3-Coagulation: Add the diluted rennet to the milk and stir it gently using an up-and-down motion for about 1 minute. Cover the pot and let it sit undisturbed for about 45 minutes, or until you achieve a clean break.

4-Cut the Curds: Once the curd has formed, cut it into small cubes using a long knife. Make vertical cuts about 1 inch apart, then make horizontal cuts in the opposite direction.

5-Stir and Heat: Gently stir the curds for about 5 minutes while slowly heating them to 100°F (38°C). Maintain this temperature for another 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent matting.

6-Drain the Curds: Line a colander with cheesecloth and carefully transfer the curds into it, allowing the whey to drain off. Tie the corners of the cheesecloth together and hang the bundle to drain for about 6-8 hours, or until the desired consistency is reached.

7-Form the Cheese: Once the curds have drained, transfer them to a cheese mold lined with cheesecloth. Press the curds at a light pressure for about 4-6 hours, or until they hold their shape.

8-Aging (Optional): If you prefer a more aged flavor, you can place the cheese in a cool, humid environment (around 50-55°F or 10-13°C) for 2-4 weeks, turning it occasionally to ensure even aging.

9-Enjoy: Once the cheese has aged to your liking, it's ready to be enjoyed! Serve it with crusty bread, fruit, or honey for a delightful treat reminiscent of Queijo da Serra.

Remember, while this recipe yields a creamy cheese similar to Queijo da Serra, the true flavor and texture of the original can only be experienced by visiting the Serra da Estrela region of Portugal.

Nutritional Values :

Whole Cow's Milk (2 gallons or 7.6 liters):

  - Calories: 2500 kcal

  - Total Fat: 184g

  - Saturated Fat: 116g

  - Cholesterol: 620mg

  - Sodium: 2300mg

  - Total Carbohydrates: 190g

  - Sugars: 190g

  - Protein: 126g

benefits:

  - Protein: Essential for building and repairing tissues, muscles, and bones.

  - Calcium: Important for bone health, nerve function, and muscle contraction.

  - Vitamin D: Aids in the absorption of calcium and promotes bone health.

  - Vitamin B12: Supports nerve function and the formation of red blood cells.

  - Healthy Fats: Provide energy and support cell function.

Mesophilic Culture (1/4 teaspoon):

  - Negligible calories, fat, cholesterol, sodium, carbohydrates, and protein.

benefits: Probiotics: May contribute to a healthy gut microbiome, aiding in digestion and supporting the immune system.

Liquid Rennet (1/4 teaspoon) (diluted in 1/4 cup of non-chlorinated water):

  - Negligible calories, fat, cholesterol, carbohydrates, and protein.

benefits: Protein: Essential for building and repairing tissues, muscles, and bones.

Cheese Salt (optional):

  - Depending on the amount used, typically cheese salt contributes minimal to no additional calories, fat, cholesterol, carbohydrates, or protein.

benefits: Sodium: Important for maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction, but should be consumed in moderation.

Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary depending on the brand and specific composition of the ingredients used. It's always a good idea to refer to the nutrition labels on the packaging for the most accurate information.

Overall, the combination of these ingredients provides a balance of macronutrients (protein, fats, and carbohydrates) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) essential for overall health and well-being. However, it's important to consume them in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.