homemade ricotta cheese

I made my own cheese last weekend.  No really, I made delicious ricotta cheese and it couldn't have been easier!  I saw it in the April 2014 Bon Appetit, the recipe inspired by the house made cheese served at Rich Table in San Francisco.  Here is the simple recipe--give it a try, and add your own touch--I could see it mixed with fresh herbs, dill, nuts, chives or even drizzled with honey.  Toss with pasta and olive oil, put it in desserts--the possibilities are endless.  Enjoy!

2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 tsp (or more to taste) kosher salt
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice or distilled white vinegar

In a heavy pot, bring the milk, cream and salt just to a boil.  Remove from the heat and stir in the lemon juice or vinegar. Stir gently till mixture starts to curdle.  Let stand for 5 minutes.

Pour mixture over 2 layers of cheesecloth set in a fine mesh sieve placed over a medium bowl .  Refrigerate for 20 minutes till spreadable or several hours for a firmer cheese.  Cover and chill cheese for up to 3 days.