Do you ever imagine what your life would be like if you could have a “do over”? If you could just pick up and move wherever you wanted, where would you go and what would you do? I think about that a lot – not because I don’t like where I am – because I do. But because, in this great, big, wonderful world, there are many places I can envision myself being happy and productive in. Take, for instance, when I visited Oregon for the first time last Fall. I was utterly enchanted by the panorama of gently rolling hills and beautiful gardens. By the time my trip was over, I had a grand fantasy of settling into my own charming country cottage surrounded by apple and pear orchards. I’d spend my days harvesting nature’s bounty and lovingly creating delectable jams, jellies and butters.
Another place I can see myself living is the lush and fertile French countryside. I’d have a few cows, goats and sheep – maybe some chickens too. Not a lot, but just enough to keep me in enough milk, eggs and cream to make lots of custards, butter, brioche – and cheese. Oh yes, definitely cheese! Couldn’t you just picture me peddling petits pots of homemade fromage blanc and buttery disks of Camembert at my own roadside fromagerie? Now, that would be something!
I’ve always been fascinated by the art of cheesemaking! I adore cheese, especially soft creamy ones. And, Mr. SGCC is an absolute cheesehound! I’ve played around a little with making fresh cheeses like mascarpone, mozzarella and ricotta - although ricotta is actually not a cheese. But, I’d love to learn how to do more. Maybe someday I’ll find myself in a quaint little village in Normandy. Who knows? Until then, I’ll have to be content with what I know, like making this insanely rich and creamy, super luscious ricotta. read more >>
Filed Under: Cheese, Cooking, Italian, Quick and Easy, Recipes
