Cheese making is an engaging way to add value to milk, whether you’re making cheese at home or preparing to expand your business. While ingredients and the process are important, using the right cheese making equipment and cheese making supplies can help you achieve consistent, high-quality results in your recipes.
Why the Right Equipment Matters
Many people begin making cheese with basic kitchen tools and simple ingredients like milk, rennet, and cultures. However, as you look to improve your cheese or increase production, dedicated cheese making equipment becomes essential. The right equipment supports food safety, helps maintain the correct temperature, and makes it easier to follow recipes for cheeses like brie or camembert.
Key Tools for Successful Cheese Making
Pots and Vats
For small batches of cheese at home, a large stainless-steel pot with a lid is suitable. This helps maintain even heat during the cheese making process. For larger-scale cheese making or business needs, a pasteurizer and a cheese vat are recommended. Cheese Kettle offers 200 Ltr and 240v Single Phase Cheese Vats and pasteurizers as part of their cheese making equipment range, suitable for both home and business use.
Thermometers
Temperature control is vital in cheese making. A dairy thermometer, which can be clipped to your pot, allows you to easily monitor milk temperature. Some thermometers come pre-calibrated for accuracy, making it easy to follow your recipes.
Measuring Tools
Accurate measurements are important for consistent results. Stainless steel or glass measuring cups and spoons are preferred cheese making supplies because they are easy to clean and durable.
Curd Handling Tools
A perforated curd ladle is used to gently stir and transfer curds. For cutting curds, a blunt-tipped curd knife or a curd cutter ensures even pieces and protects your equipment. Cheese Kettle stocks curd knives and cutters in their cheese making kits.
Draining and Pressing
Cheesecloth-lined colanders are standard for draining whey from curds. For larger quantities, drainage strips may be needed. Pressing the curds into shape requires a cheese press, which applies steady pressure. Cheese Kettle offers commercial cheese presses as part of their cheese making equipment and kits.
Drying and Aging
Cheese draining mats allow air to circulate as your cheese dries and ages. Fine mesh mats are recommended for easy handling and to avoid sticking.
Waxing and Wrapping
Hard cheeses are often waxed to protect them from contamination. You’ll need a waxing pot, a brush, and cheese wax. When your cheese is ready for storage or distribution, use the appropriate cheese wrap for the type of cheese, such as brie or camembert.
pH and Acid Testing
Monitoring acidity is important for quality and safety. A portable pH meter with an integrated temperature sensor is recommended. Calibration solutions help keep your pH meter accurate, and cleaning solutions are part of essential cheese making supplies.
Molds and Hoops
Cheese hoops and molds help shape your cheese and allow whey to drain efficiently. These are usually lined with cheesecloth for easy removal.
Additional Equipment for Larger Operations
For those looking to scale up their cheese making business, additional cheese making equipment may include:
- Brine tanks for soaking certain cheeses
- Milk storage tanks with cooling systems
- Cleaning solutions for maintaining equipment hygiene
Conclusion
Using the right cheese making equipment and cheese making supplies helps streamline the process, improve consistency, and support food safety. Whether you’re making cheese at home with a simple kit or running a business in Australia, having the proper equipment makes it easy to follow your recipes and enjoy the cheese you love.
Ready to Improve Your Cheese Production?
Cheese Kettle offers a full range of cheese making equipment, cheese making kits, and supplies to support both home cheesemakers and businesses. Discover our premium cheese kettles designed for efficient and consistent cheese production-visit our products page to view the full range of equipment.