Lady’s Bedstraw (Galium verum) 🌼, a bright yellow flowering plant, has a fascinating history in cheese-making, especially in European traditions. Historically, it was used as a natural coagulant in cheese production, much like rennet, which helps curdle the milk 🧀. What makes Lady's Bedstraw unique is that its yellow flowers also lend a natural colour to the cheese, giving it a golden hue ✨.
Historical Titbits:
Medieval Europe: In medieval times, Lady’s Bedstraw was particularly favoured for making soft cheeses in parts of England and Wales. It was thought to give a distinctive flavour to the cheese, along with the bright colour 🌿.
Viking Tradition: The Vikings 🛡️ are believed to have used Lady’s Bedstraw in cheese-making. This practice was especially prominent in Scandinavia, where the plant grew in abundance. The herb was not only valued for its ability to curdle milk but also for its medicinal properties 🌱, making it a staple in both the kitchen and apothecary.
Name Origin: The plant’s name, "Lady's Bedstraw," comes from its historical use as a stuffing for mattresses 🛏️. Legend has it that it was placed in the manger of baby Jesus, symbolizing purity and protection ✨. In cheese-making, the plant’s association with comfort and nourishment extends to the belief that it imbued cheese with a unique wholesome quality.
Lady's Bedstraw stands out for its dual role—both practical and symbolic—in cheese-making traditions across Europe. Today, while it’s less common in commercial cheese production, it remains a fascinating example of how herbs and plants have historically shaped our culinary practices 🌸.
🧀 Lady's Bedstraw Cheese Recipe 🧀
Ingredients:
2 litres of fresh milk 🥛
🌿 A handful of Lady's Bedstraw flowers 🌿
1 tsp salt 🧂
Cheesecloth or muslin 🧵
Directions:
Harvest & Prepare 🌿
Gather fresh Lady’s Bedstraw flowers. Rinse them gently to remove any dirt.
Heat the Milk 🥛🔥
Pour the milk into a large pot and heat slowly over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add the Flowers 🌼
When the milk is warm but not boiling, add the Lady's Bedstraw flowers. Stir and let it simmer for 15 minutes until curds form.
Strain the Curds 🧵
Line a fine mesh strainer or colander with cheesecloth and pour in the curds and whey. Let it drain for 1-2 hours.
Season & Enjoy 🧀🍽️
Transfer the drained cheese to a bowl. Add salt and shape it into a small cheese round. Enjoy your homemade Lady’s Bedstraw cheese!
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