When you think of cheese, European varieties might come to mind first. But did you know Thailand has its own artisan cheese maker producing world-class goat cheese? This blog post takes you on a flavorful journey from local Thai Goat farms to Michelin-starred kitchens! Whether you're a local farmer, food enthusiast, hotelier, or chef, you'll find valuable insights into the making of this exceptional cheese and inspiration.
The Birth of “Little Goat Farm” Thai Goat Cheese
The story of Little Goat Farm begins with Ms.Kai Srikong, a veterinarian and university professor turned artisan cheese maker. Her commitment to social responsibility led her to solve local farming issues. She noticed an oversupply of goat milk in her community and decided to turn this challenge into an opportunity by producing goat cheese, an expensive delicacy in Europe.
Kai initial attempts at cheese making were met with skepticism. The first block of cheese she offered was dismissed as "not cheese." However, her determination didn't waver. Through continuous feedback and relentless effort, she finally crafted the perfect cheese that met the high standards of chefs.
Little Goat Farm sources its milk and ingredients from local, sustainable farms, supporting the community while ensuring high-quality products. This approach has made them a favorite among Michelin chefs and 5-star hotels, setting them apart from other cheese producers.
Little Goat Farm is Sustainability Farm
Little Goat Farm began principle to create delicious cheese without harming the planet. Ms.Kai designed the farm to be green, energy-efficient, and self-sustaining creating a harmonious ecosystem where every element plays a vital role.
Solar-Powered Operations
Little Goat Farm relies on solar energy. Solar panels line the roofs, harnessing the power of the sun to run their operations. It’s a shining example of how modern farms can operate sustainably.
Biodegradable Packaging
Once the cheese is crafted, it’s packaged in 100% biodegradable materials. This commitment to environmental responsibility extends beyond production and into the packaging process. By using eco-friendly packaging, Little Goat Farm ensures that their delicious product doesn’t contribute to landfill waste.
Goat-Raised Approach at Little Goat Farm
At Little Goat Farm, our goats are raised with the utmost care and compassion, adhering to the "5 Freedoms" philosophy.
Freedom from hunger and thirst. Our goats have constant access to fresh water and a balanced diet that keeps them in peak health and vigor.
Freedom from discomfort. We provide a comfortable environment, complete with appropriate shelter and cozy resting areas.
Freedom from pain. We prioritize preventing pain, injury, and disease through vigilant care, including rapid diagnosis and treatment.
Freedom to express normal behavior. Our goats enjoy ample space, proper facilities, and the company of their fellow goats, allowing them to engage in natural behaviors.
Freedom from fear and distress. We create conditions and treatment which avoid mentals. that minimize stress and anxiety, ensuring our goats live serene and happy lives.
The Beginning of Thai Goat Cheese in Michelin Kitchens
The initial phase of introducing Thai goat cheese to Michelin-starred kitchens was challenging. Ms.Kai had to overcome numerous obstacles, from perfecting the cheese-making process to gaining acceptance from top chefs.
Gaining Michelin Recognition
Persistence paid off as Little Goat Farm's cheese began to gain recognition. Its unique flavors, derived from local ingredients, caught the attention of Michelin chefs who started using it in their dishes. The blend of Thai culinary traditions with artisanal cheese proved to be a winning combination.
Success Stories
Today, Little Goat Farm's cheese is featured in Michelin-starred restaurants. The farm's dedication to quality and community support has earned it a special place in the gourmet world, making it a sought-after ingredient in high-end kitchens.
Continuous Development
The journey didn't stop at creating the perfect cheese. Little Goat Farm continually innovates and improves its products nonstop.
From Farm to Table The Incredible Journey of Making Goat Cheese at Little Goat Farm
Goats Ready for Milking
Our cheese-making adventure begins with the goats themselves. Goats have a gestation period of five months. After giving birth, they produce colostrum for their young, which is rich in antibodies. Once the colostrum stage passes, the goats begin to produce regular milk, which we can harvest and consume.
Young goats consume 20-30% of their body weight in milk, but a mother goat can produce about 2-3 kilograms of milk daily. Excess milk must be milked out to prevent mastitis, a painful inflammation of the udder, which can be fatal if untreated. Proper care ensures both the well-being of the goats and the quality of the milk.
Transforming Milk into Cheese
Once we've gathered the fresh goat's milk, the magic of cheese-making begins. This process involves several critical steps, each contributing to the unique flavor and texture of the final product.
The first step is pasteurization, where the milk is heated to kill any harmful bacteria. This ensures the milk is safe for consumption and sets the stage for the cheese-making process.
After pasteurization, the milk is cooled to a suitable temperature for culturing. Cheese culture is added to break down the lactose in the milk into lactic acid. This step is crucial for developing the cheese's flavor and texture. Different cultures can create a variety of cheese flavors, from mild to tangy.
Next, we add rennet, an enzyme that helps the milk coagulate and form curds. The curds resemble bean curd jelly and are the foundation of cheese. The type and amount of rennet used can affect the texture and firmness of the cheese.
The next step is to shape and cure the cheese. This process varies depending on the type of cheese being made.
After molding, the cheese is left to cure. Curing time varies by cheese type and can range from a few days to months to years. During this time, the cheese develops its flavor and texture. Some cheeses are turned during curing to enhance their characteristics.
Little Goat Farm has not only created a product that stands out in the culinary world but has also positively impacted local farmers and sustainable practices. Whether you're a chef, food enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates good cheese, there's never been a better time to explore the unique flavors of Thai goat cheese.
Related blog: Little Goat Farm, Thai artisan cheese
If you're curious to learn more about Thai goat cheese or want to incorporate it into your menu, consider reaching out to Little Goat Farm. Their expert team is always ready to help you experience the best that Thai goat cheese has to offer.
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