Homemade cheese cubes with herbs and black pepper

 

🧀 Homemade Cheese Cubes with Herbs and Black Pepper – A Flavor-Packed Delight You Can Make at Home

If you've ever wanted to elevate your cheese game beyond store-bought blocks, you're in for a treat. These Homemade Cheese Cubes with Herbs and Black Pepper are delicious, aromatic, and surprisingly simple to prepare — no fancy equipment or aging cellar needed!

Whether you're putting together a charcuterie board, tossing them into a salad, or enjoying them as a snack, these cubes deliver a satisfying burst of flavor in every bite.

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🧂 Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Customizable: Choose your favorite herbs and spice level

• Fresh and preservative-free: You know exactly what's going in

• Perfect for entertaining: Ideal as an appetizer or finger food

• Great make-ahead snack: Marinate and store in the fridge for days

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🧀 Ingredients

For the Cheese (Quick Paneer-Style Cheese):

• 1 liter (4 cups) whole milk

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice or white vinegar

• A pinch of salt

For the Marinade:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (crushed or coarsely ground)

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary

• 1 clove garlic, finely minced (optional)

• A pinch of chili flakes (optional, for heat)

• Salt to taste

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🍳 How to Make It

Step 1: Make the Cheese

1. In a saucepan, bring the milk to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

2. Once it starts to boil, reduce the heat and slowly stir in the lemon juice or vinegar.

3. You'll notice the milk curdling — curds will separate from the whey.

4. Once fully separated, remove from heat.

5. Strain the curds through a muslin cloth or cheesecloth over a colander. Rinse with cold water to remove any acidic taste.

6. Gather the cloth into a ball and squeeze out excess moisture.

7. Place the wrapped cheese under a heavy object (like a pan or a can) for 1 hour to set it into a firm block.

8. After setting, cut the cheese into bite-sized cubes.

Step 2: Marinate the Cubes

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, herbs, garlic, pepper, and salt.

2. Gently toss the cheese cubes in the marinade, ensuring all sides are coated.

3. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour — the longer, the better (up to 2–3 days).

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🧊 Storage Tips

• Keep the marinated cheese in an airtight container in the fridge.

• It should last up to 5 days if stored properly.

• For longer storage, cover the cubes fully in olive oil in a sterilized jar (like preserved feta).

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🍽️ How to Serve

• Charcuterie board addition with olives, crackers, and cured meats

• Tossed into pasta or grain salads

• Skewered with cherry tomatoes and cucumber for mini kebabs

• Enjoyed on its own as a protein-packed snack

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🧄 Variations to Try

• Add sun-dried tomatoes or chopped olives to the marinade

• Use fresh herbs like basil, chives, or dill for a garden-fresh flavor

• Try smoked paprika or cumin for a warm, earthy twist

• Use store-bought paneer, halloumi, or firm feta for convenience

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👩‍🍳 Final Thoughts

Making your own herbed cheese cubes is easier than you think — and way more rewarding. With just a few ingredients and a bit of time, you’ll have a savory, aromatic treat that’s sure to impress guests or simply elevate your everyday snacking.

Fresh, flavorful, and fully customizable — what more could you ask for?