Today could have gone better. I didn't read my recipe carefully enough and accidentally put in the wrong culture, which was very upsetting. However, at moments like that, one has no choice but to carry on and see what happens. Usually when something goes differently than we've planned, Benjamin says "Maybe it will be the best cheese ever." So I said that to myself and went ahead with my work.
I had 75 gallons of milk this morning, and meant to make Manchego. I don't know enough to say how it's going to be affected by my mistake, only to know that the two cultures I mixed up are for very different things. I guess I'll see what Benjamin says, and ultimately, what happens to the cheese.
I consoled myself with fresh cheese curds for lunch, which was delightful since Manchego curds get cut very small, which makes them extra squeaky. Other than my mistake, the process went rather well.
I consoled myself with fresh cheese curds for lunch, which was delightful since Manchego curds get cut very small, which makes them extra squeaky. Other than my mistake, the process went rather well.
I ended up with 75 lbs of cheese, divided into 5 wheels. They are now residing in the brine, and will remain there for a little more than 48 hours.
And it's rhubarb season! The plants are growing right next to the apprentice house, and I've been impatiently (and vocally, probably to Jacob's annoyance) awaiting their readiness. I had a busy day, but couldn't resist whipping up a cobbler for dinner. I made ice cream last week from Zoe's milk, and the combination was delightful.