Cheese is a food product that is found in almost every kitchen throughout the world. It’s used in various applications but is also high in calories, salt and saturated fats. However, there is a type of cheese that is very low in calories but high in vitamins, minerals and protein, called cottage cheese.
Some history behind the cheese
What we know of the ancient Egyptians and Greeks indicates that this form of cheese has long been in existence as a food source. However, in the 19th century, many dairy farmers made cheese from sour milk so as not to waste it and called the result ‘Dutch Cheese’. However, today it’s made from pasteurised or low-fat milk. How did the product get the name cottage cheese? American farmers gave it what we can class as its common household name. It is widely believed that, in days gone by, after the farmers had made their butter in their cottages, the milk that was left over was used to make this cheese. The cheese is very high in protein and low in calories, which makes it an excellent food to eat if you’re planning to lose weight. This is because it makes you feel full after eating it. This causes you to take in less food and so your weight is reduced. This cheese is also a great source of calcium.
How do you make it?
Cottage cheese is made using pasteurised or low-fat milk to which vinegar is added. This allows the milk to curdle and form solid pieces, or what is known as ‘curds’. The mixture is then heated and allowed to cool, which allows the curds to form properly. This liquid, which is called ‘whey’, is drained off and the curds are again heated. The remaining water is drained off, leaving only the curds behind. Lastly, salt is added, and you then have your finished product. This form of cheese is very soft and creamy and is known as fresh cheese as it does not have to go through the ageing process like other cheeses. Therefore, you get a delicious mild flavour.
Make it different but yummy
Because of its soft texture, this cheese is easy to include in your diet. You can enjoy as an addition to a healthy green salad and it works well as a flavour balancer in a fruit salad mix. Use it instead of salt as an addition to your vegetarian dishes such as carrot and beetroot pie. Cottage cheese is also a great substitute for ordinary mayonnaise.
Find your cheese fix
If you want to find some inspiration regarding foods made with cottage cheese, try Foodcoholic’s Paneer Pakoda, which is deliciously crispy cottage cheese fingers. Alternatively, try Rasmalai, a saffron-infused Indian cottage cheese dish at Khantha’s Kitchen.
