Homemade Cottage Cheese

The preparation

6 steps, about 102 minutes start to finish.

1. 01

   Add the milk to an 8-quart pot and stir over medium heat until it reaches 180-190 F, about 20 minutes. Remove from heat.

2. 02

   Stir in the vinegar. As the curds form, gently herd them toward the middle of the pot for about 30 seconds. Lid the pot and leave undisturbed for 1 hour.

3. 03

   Line a colander with a smooth kitchen towel and set it inside a large bowl. Scoop the curds in with a slotted spoon and drain 15 minutes.

4. 04

   Rinse the curds under gently running cool water for 2 minutes, then gather the towel and wring out as much liquid as possible.

5. 05

   Spread the curds on a towel-lined sheet pan, break them apart with your fingers, toss with the salt, and air-dry 5 minutes.

6. 06

   Refrigerate in a lidded container up to a week. To serve, stir in the cream, buttermilk, and lemon zest.