Jāņi Cheese

History and Background

Jāņi Cheese is a traditional Latvian cheese, often associated with the midsummer festival of Jāņi, celebrated around the summer solstice. The festival is a time of singing, dancing, and festivities, culminating in the eating of Jāņi Cheese as a symbol of prosperity and good fortune for the coming year. The cheese itself is known for its mild flavor, bright yellow color, and is usually flavored with caraway seeds.

Ingredients

• Milk - 2 liters
• Cottage Cheese - 500 grams
• Butter - 50 grams
• Caraway Seeds - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Eggs - 3

Preparation

Before beginning the preparation of Jāņi Cheese, ensure you have all the ingredients ready. It's important to use fresh milk and cottage cheese for the best flavor. The inclusion of caraway seeds is traditional but optional based on personal preference.

Step 1: Heat the Milk

Pour the milk into a large saucepan and heat it gently over medium heat until it reaches a simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pan.

Step 2: Add Cottage Cheese

Gently add the cottage cheese into the heated milk, stirring continuously. Allow the mixture to return to a simmer. You will notice curds forming; this is a crucial stage in creating the cheese.

Step 3: Strain the Mixture

After the curds have formed, remove the saucepan from heat. Line a colander with cheesecloth and carefully pour the mixture through it to separate the curds from the whey. Let the whey drain completely.

Step 4: Mix Remaining Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and add them to the warm curds along with the butter, salt, and coriander. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 5: Cook the Cheese

Transfer the mixture back into the saucepan and return it to medium-low heat. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan, forming a solid mass. This process takes around 15 minutes. A cooking timer can help you keep track of this stage.

Step 6: Form the Cheese

Shape the warm cheese mixture into a wheel or log using the cheesecloth. Wrap it tightly and place it on a flat surface. Use a light weight to press any remaining whey out. Allow it to cool completely.

Enjoying Jāņi Cheese

Once prepared, Jāņi Cheese can be served as part of a festive dining experience. It pairs beautifully with dark rye bread, fresh vegetables, and honey. For a traditional Jāņi celebration, accompany the cheese with herbal teas or a local brew while enjoying evening songs and folklore under the stars.