Nothing like a simple decedent dessert for the weekend. This is a basic ricotta recipe that you can customize however you like. Once you learn this technique then the options are endless from sweet to savory applications. You probably often associate ricotta with lasagna and pasta but the options are endless. Watch my story on Instagram to learn this simple few steps few ingredients method. Prepare to fall in love with this creamy whipped ricotta served with fresh fruit for dessert or as a cheese course. Its so good sometimes I just eat it with a spoon.
Vanilla infused Fresh ricotta
Ingredients:
8 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 pod vanilla bean split and seeds removed
3-5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (you can substitute with white vinegar)
Pinch of salt
Tools:
A bowl
Cheesecloth or paper towels
A sieve
Directions
Line a sieve with a dampen (with water) 2 layers of cheesecloth (I can also use dampen paper towels) and place over a bowl.
With the a pairing knife slit the vanilla bean open removing the seeds and placing them into the milk mixture along with the pods for added flavor.
In a large, stainless-steel or enameled heavy pot over moderate heat, bring the milk, cream and salt to a gentle boil, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. Watch the milk from boiling over.
After the milk comes yo a gentle boil, add the lemon juice, reduce the heat to low and continue stirring until curds form, about 3-5 minutes.
The curdles It will separate into the thick cheesy part which is (the curds) and milky parts the liquid which is (the whey).
Pour the mixture into the lined sieve and let it drain, about 10-20 minutes. Remove the ricotta from the sieve to a medium bowl, discarding the liquid.
occasionally discard the liquid that collects in the bowl to allow for more drainage
If you prefer your ricotta a little bit more firm let it drain longer.
Tips:
Store in the fridge in a glass covered jar or in a bowl covered with plastic wrap
It will last up to 3-5 days in the fridge
Ricotta is delicious in both sweet and savory dishes
If you are making this for a savory dish omit the vanilla bean
To make this whipped dessert ricotta you would need:
Ricotta
Assortment of fresh fruits. I am using citrus
Good honey to drizzle
You can also use honey comb
To whip the ricotta
You can whip the ricotta in the food processor it will transform it into an incredibly smooth, delicious cheese
In a food processor, place the ricotta and process until smooth, 1 to 2 minutes. Or to the consistency you like. If you like your ricotta chunkier then you can pulse the mixture until you get the consistency you like.
At this point the ricotta is a blank canvas that can be paired with any flavors and ingredients.
To assemble:
Spread the ricotta in a bowl
Drizzle with honey
Arrange fresh fruits all around
You can serve with toasted baguette