Recipe: Juustoa – Finnish “Squeaky” Cheese 🧀
Description:
Finnish Squeaky Cheese, known for its delightful squeak when warmed, is a cherished delicacy in the northern UP/Michigan area and among the Finnish community. This mild cheese holds a special place in many hearts, with traditions like dropping a cube into coffee to heat it up. Perfect for those seeking a unique culinary adventure, this recipe brings the essence of Finnish cuisine to your table.
- Cuisine: Finnish
- Keywords: Scandinavian, European, Broil/Grill, Oven, Stove Top, < 4 Hours, Easy
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 5234.9
- Fat: 285.8g
- Saturated Fat: 177.9g
- Cholesterol: 1093.1mg
- Sodium: 17781.3mg
- Carbohydrates: 422.8g
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Sugar: 37.7g
- Protein: 256.2g
Ingredients:
- 2 gallons milk
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 tablet rennet
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. | Heat milk to 90°F (32°C) in a large pot. |
| 2. | Add sugar, cornstarch, salt, and crumbled rennet tablet to the warm milk, stirring gently to combine. |
| 3. | Remove the pot from heat and allow the mixture to set until gelled, resembling a custard-like consistency. This typically takes about 30-45 minutes. |
| 4. | Once the mixture has gelled, use a spoon to cut it into X-shaped patterns, similar to cottage cheese curds. Be gentle to maintain the texture. |
| 5. | Allow the curds to settle for an additional 30 minutes, allowing them to mat together at the bottom of the pot. |
| 6. | Carefully drain off the whey, leaving behind the curds. |
| 7. | Transfer the curds into a 10×12 cake pan, spreading them evenly. |
| 8. | Broil the curds in the oven until they develop a golden-brown crust, typically 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. |
| 9. | Remove the pan from the oven and allow the cheese to cool slightly before flipping it over. |
| 10. | Once flipped, you may optionally spread a thin layer of butter and lightly sprinkle salt over the cheese. |
| 11. | Return the cheese to the broiler and continue cooking until the other side is browned and crispy, approximately 5-10 minutes. |
| 12. | Remove the cheese from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. |
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy the Juustoa warm, as its unique squeakiness is best appreciated when heated.
- Pair with your favorite hot beverage, following the tradition of dropping a cube into coffee for a comforting treat.
- Serve as an appetizer or snack, accompanied by crackers, fresh fruit, or preserves for a delightful contrast of flavors.
- Experiment with different toppings or condiments to customize the taste according to your preference.
Tips:
- Use high-quality milk for the best results, preferably whole milk for a rich and creamy texture.
- Ensure the milk is warmed gently to the specified temperature to activate the rennet and promote proper curd formation.
- Be patient during the gelling process, as adequate time is essential for achieving the desired consistency.
- Handle the curds with care to avoid breaking them apart, preserving their characteristic texture.
- Adjust the broiling time as needed to achieve the desired level of browning, keeping a close eye on the cheese to prevent overcooking.
- Allow the cheese to cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your tongue and to allow the flavors to develop fully.
Enjoy your homemade Juustoa – Finnish “Squeaky” Cheese, and savor the delicious taste of authentic Finnish cuisine! 🇫🇮🧀
