Health Benefits of Cottage Cheese

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Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is a freshly made cheese that has a unique texture. It is different from the countertop types of cheese available in the grocery stores. It is a healthier option as it contains low fat and is good in protein, calcium, vitamins B and A. This means that it will help with weight loss and muscle gain. So, it is popular among athletes and people who are on a weight loss diet. Cottage cheese blends well with various dishes because of its subtle flavour. 

How is Cottage Cheese Made?

Cottage cheese does not undergo the process of ripening or ageing; hence, it is fresh and has a fresher flavour. It is creamy, soft, and white, with a unique texture that is unlike other varieties of cheese. 

The following is the step-by-step process of making cottage cheese at home.

1. Heat the curd in a heavy bottom pot. Heat slowly till 88*F. Slow heating will ensure that the curds formed are firm. Keep stirring the pot so that the milk doesn’t burn at the bottom.
2. Remove the pot from the stove, pour it into the vinegar, and stir it. Let this sit for 30 minutes. 
3. Place the colander on a vessel. Line the colander with a tea cloth or with double cheesecloth. 
4. With a spoon, take out the solids from the pot and gently put them in the lined colander. Make sure not to dump the solids in the colander, as they can break easily. Let it sit for 30 minutes.
5. With the help of the ends of the cheesecloth, grab it in a ball with one hand. Now gently run cold water over it and squeeze the ball gently.
6. Now unwrap the ball and break the curd into the required size. 
7. If you added skimmed milk, for 2% cottage cheese, add two tablespoons of heavy cream and for 4% cottage cheese, add four tablespoons of heavy cream.
8. If you add whole milk, then add two tablespoons of heavy cream for 4% cottage cheese. 
9. Serve after chilling for 30 minutes for an amazing flavour. 
10. Store it in an airtight container and use it within a week.

Benefits of Cottage Cheese

• According to research, consuming more dairy products may reduce the risk of few types of cancers. Experts suggest that increasing calcium intake may provide protection against the following cancers: Bladder cancer, Breast cancer, Colorectal cancer, and Stomach cancer (gastric) .
• Probiotics are living microorganisms that have the potential to enhance the equilibrium between beneficial and harmful bacteria in the gut. They are also known as gut microbiota. The inclusion of beneficial bacteria during the curdling process of cottage cheese production can aid in the improvement of gut health. However, unlike Greek and regular yoghurt, which typically contain probiotics, not all types of cottage cheese offer the same benefits.
• Calcium in cottage cheese aids in preventing osteoporosis, which is a condition that increases the risk of bone fractures. 
• Phosphorus present in cottage cheese plays a crucial role in ensuring proper bone growth and strength, particularly during periods of rapid growth or when recovering from a fracture.
• Protein helps preserve bone mineral density and can lower the likelihood of experiencing fractures. It can be found in abundance in cottage cheese.
• Cottage cheese contains casein protein, which supplies amino acids to your cells steadily for an extended duration. This helps in muscle recovery rather than degradation. Consuming cottage cheese post-workout can optimize the benefits for your muscles.
• Cottage cheese with no added ingredients has a low carbohydrate content, which makes it the perfect choice for individuals monitoring their blood sugar levels. 
• Cottage cheese boasts a high content of casein protein, a complete protein containing all the essential amino acids that are needed for protein synthesis in the body.
• Factors present in cottage cheese, like low fat, high protein and high calcium, make it the perfect choice for people who are looking to lose weight.

Conclusion

Cottage cheese is a kind of curd cheese that has a gentle taste and a velvety consistency. It is rich in various essential nutrients, like protein, B vitamins, and minerals like calcium, selenium, and phosphorus. If your goal is to shed some weight or enhance muscle growth, adding cottage cheese to your diet can be highly advantageous.

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