Kefir Cheese: How Long Does It Last?

Kefir cheese is a soft, creamy, and slightly tart cheese that can be used in a variety of ways. It is a probiotic-rich, homemade soft cheese made from milk kefir. It is a delicious, healthy alternative to cream cheese and sour cream and can be used as a dip, spread, or salad dressing. It is also a great way to use up extra milk kefir and can be seasoned to suit any palate. But how long does it last?

Kefir cheese's shelf life

Kefir cheese is a soft, creamy, and slightly tart cheese. It is a versatile, simple cheese that can be used in a variety of ways. It is also full of healthy probiotics.

The shelf life of kefir cheese depends on how long it is fermented and the type of milk used. The longer you strain your kefir, the denser the cheese will be. The cheese can be flavoured with herbs and other seasonings to extend its shelf life.

Kefir cheese made with non-fat milk has a shelf life of about two weeks. The cheese will continue to ferment slowly in the fridge, and you might get a little more whey leaking out. It tastes best if eaten within a couple of weeks of making it.

Kefir cheese made with whole milk has a higher fat content and will last longer. This cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for several weeks. However, it will continue to sour and ferment over time.

• Store the cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Use whole milk for a creamier cheese with a longer shelf life.
• Add salt to the cheese to extend its shelf life.
• Flavour the cheese with herbs and seasonings to enhance its flavour and extend its shelf life.
• Use a cloth cover instead of a lid to prevent over-fermentation and extend the shelf life.

By following these tips, you can enjoy the delicious and healthy kefir cheese for a longer period of time.

Kefir cheese's versatility in recipes

Kefir cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. Its soft, creamy, and slightly tart texture makes it a simple cheese that can be used in sweet and savoury dishes. Here are some ways in which Kefir cheese can be used:

As a Spread

Kefir cheese can be used as a spread on toast, bagels, and crackers. It can be seasoned with herbs and other savoury flavours such as garlic, basil, olive oil, and chives to create a flavorful cheese spread.

As a Dip

The cheese also works well as a dip for vegetables or crackers. It can be seasoned with herbs, spices, or even sweetened with cocoa powder to create a variety of dip options.

In Baked Goods

Kefir cheese can be used as a substitute for ricotta or cream cheese in baked goods such as lasagna or cheesecake. It provides a similar texture and flavour while adding a tangy twist to these dishes.

In Salads

The cheese can be sprinkled on salads to add a creamy and tangy element. Its soft and crumbly texture makes it easy to mix into salad greens and other ingredients.

As a Feta-like Cheese

By pressing more whey out of the cheese, you can create a firmer texture similar to feta cheese. This allows for a wider range of uses, such as crumbling over salads or using in recipes that call for feta.

In Sweet Treats

Kefir cheese is also versatile enough to be used in sweet dishes. It can be used to make frosting or as a filling for cheesecakes, providing a tangy and creamy element to these treats.

How to make kefir cheese

Kefir cheese is a delicious soft cheese that is a lot like soft goat cheese. It is easy to make and is a great way to use up excess kefir or kefir that has been over-cultured and separated. Here is a simple guide on how to make kefir cheese:

Ingredients and Equipment:

• Milk kefir grains
• Whole milk (preferably organic)
• Cheesecloth or a thin, clean tea towel
• Strainer or colander
• Bowl or container to catch the whey
• Deep wide-mouthed jar or stainless steel/glass bowl
• Long-handled wooden spoon or chopstick
• Salt (optional)
• Additional herbs and spices for flavouring (optional)

Method:

Step 1: Ferment the Kefir

Place 2 tablespoons of kefir grains into a clean glass jar and pour in 2 cups of milk. Cover the jar with a coffee filter or a small towel and secure it with a rubber band. Let the jar sit at room temperature for 12-24 hours, or until the kefir reaches the desired thickness and sourness.

Step 2: Separate the Grains

Use a strainer to remove the grains from the milk kefir. You can set these aside and use them to make more kefir.

Step 3: Allow Curds to Separate

Once the grains have been removed, let the milk kefir sit at room temperature until the whey and curds separate. This can take around 12 hours or less.

Step 4: Strain the Curds

Line a strainer or colander with a double layer of cheesecloth or a thin tea towel. Place the strainer over a large bowl and pour in the milk kefir, allowing it to strain for 15 to 30 minutes.

Step 5: Hang the Curds

Gather the corners of the cloth and tie it over a long-handled spoon or chopstick, allowing the curds to hang and continue draining. Let it strain for 12 to 24 hours at room temperature or in the refrigerator if the room is warm. The longer it drains, the thicker the cheese will be.

Step 6: Add Flavourings (Optional)

Once the desired thickness is achieved, remove the cheese from the cloth and transfer it to a container. You can add salt and other flavourings such as herbs, spices, or olive oil to taste.

Step 7: Store and Serve

Store the kefir cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should keep for about a week, possibly up to two weeks. The flavour will get stronger the longer it is stored. Enjoy your homemade kefir cheese as a spread, dip, or substitute for cream cheese or ricotta!

The health benefits of kefir cheese

Kefir cheese is a soft, creamy, and slightly tart cheese that is highly nutritious and offers a wide range of health benefits. Here are some of the key health benefits associated with consuming kefir cheese:

Rich in Nutrients:

Kefir cheese, made from milk kefir, is a good source of many essential nutrients. A 1-cup serving of low-fat kefir provides approximately 36% of the daily value (DV) for calcium, 20% for phosphorus, 29% for vitamin B12, 25% for riboflavin (B2), 7% for magnesium, and 12% for vitamin D. It also contains bioactive compounds, organic acids, and peptides that contribute to its health benefits.

Probiotic Properties:

Kefir cheese is an excellent source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria and yeasts. These probiotics improve gut health and digestive processes. Kefir contains up to 61 strains of bacteria and yeasts, making it a more potent source of probiotics than yogurt. The main beneficial bacteria found in kefir is Lactobacillus kefiri, which has potent antibacterial properties and can inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria like Salmonella, H. pylori, and E. coli.

Improved Bone Health:

Kefir cheese supports bone health and may help reduce the risk of osteoporosis. It is a good source of calcium and vitamin K2, which are crucial for maintaining strong bones. Studies have shown that consuming kefir milk daily improved bone mineral density in individuals with osteoporosis. Additionally, kefir is rich in other bone-building nutrients like vitamin D, phosphorus, and magnesium.

Digestive Benefits:

The probiotics in kefir cheese can help restore the balance of friendly bacteria in the gut, making it beneficial for those with digestive issues. It is also suitable for people with lactose intolerance as the lactic acid bacteria in kefir break down lactose, making it easier to digest. Regular consumption of kefir cheese may improve digestion and enhance intestinal health.

Heart Health:

Kefir cheese may offer heart health benefits by helping to manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Research suggests that kefir can reduce the risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome, which can increase the chances of heart disease. The probiotics in kefir may also help lower blood pressure and improve triglyceride levels, contributing to overall heart health.

Immune System Support:

Consuming kefir cheese may provide immune-boosting properties. The probiotics in kefir have been shown to enhance intestinal immunity in animal studies. Additionally, kefir's antibacterial properties may help protect against bacterial infections, further supporting the immune system.

Allergy and Asthma Relief:

Kefir cheese may help alleviate allergy and asthma symptoms by suppressing inflammatory responses associated with these conditions. Animal studies have indicated that kefir can modulate the immune system and reduce inflammation triggered by allergies and asthma.

How to store kefir cheese

Kefir cheese is a soft, creamy, and slightly tart cheese that is highly versatile and simple to make. It is a great source of probiotics and can be used in a variety of dishes, such as dips, spreads, or salad dressings. Here are some detailed instructions on how to store kefir cheese to prolong its freshness and maintain its quality:

Storing Freshly Made Kefir Cheese:

• Use an airtight container: Transfer the kefir cheese to an airtight container, such as a glass jar or a sealed container with a tight-fitting lid. This helps prevent air exposure, which can lead to drying out and contamination.
• Refrigerate promptly: Place the kefir cheese in the refrigerator as soon as possible after preparation. The ideal temperature for storing kefir cheese is between 35°F and 40°F (1.7°C to 4.4°C). Refrigeration slows down bacterial growth and prevents spoilage.
• Consume within two weeks: Homemade kefir cheese has a shorter shelf life compared to store-bought cheese. It is best consumed within two weeks of preparation. Even when stored properly, kefir cheese will continue to sour and ferment slowly in the refrigerator.
• Cover with a cloth: If you don't have an airtight container, you can use a cloth cover instead. A cloth cover allows some air circulation while still protecting the cheese from contaminants. This method may result in a shorter shelf life, so monitor the cheese regularly.

Storing Flavoured Kefir Cheese:

• Mix-in flavourings: After preparing the kefir cheese, you can add various flavourings such as herbs, spices, garlic, or sweet cocoa powder. Mix the flavourings thoroughly into the cheese and let it rest for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavours to blend.
• Store in a sealed container: Similar to plain kefir cheese, flavoured kefir cheese should be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator. The added ingredients may affect the texture and moisture content, so adjust the storage method accordingly.
• Consume within two weeks: Flavoured kefir cheese also has a limited shelf life. It is best to consume it within two weeks of preparation to ensure optimal flavour and quality.
• Label and date the container: When storing flavoured kefir cheese, it is a good practice to label and date the container. This helps you keep track of when it was prepared and ensures you consume it within the recommended timeframe.

By following these storage guidelines, you can enjoy your homemade kefir cheese at its best while maximising its freshness and nutritional benefits.

Frequently asked questions