What Are The Differences Between Liquid And Tablet Rennet?

“I’ve recently started making cheese at home and I’m a bit confused about the different types of rennet available. I want to make sure I choose the right one for my recipes, but I’m not sure whether liquid or tablet rennet would be best. Can you explain the main differences between liquid and tablet rennet, and maybe give some advice on what might be better for a beginner cheese maker? Thanks so much!”

Anna, Wellington, New Zealand

What Are The Differences Between Liquid And Tablet Rennet?

Hey Anna! It’s awesome to hear that you’re diving into cheese making. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of liquid and tablet rennet so you can make an informed decision for your cheese-making adventures.

What is Rennet?

Rennet is an essential ingredient in cheese making. It contains enzymes that help coagulate milk, transforming it from a liquid into curds and whey. This coagulation step is crucial for turning milk into the firm, delicious cheese we all love.

Types of Rennet

Rennet comes in several forms, the most common of which are liquid and tablet versions. Each form has its own unique characteristics, benefits, and drawbacks. Knowing these differences can help you decide which type will best fit your needs.

• Liquid Rennet: This form is probably the most popular among both home and professional cheese makers. Liquid rennet is easy to measure precisely, making it ideal for small batches or when a specific quantity is required.
• Tablet Rennet: Rennet tablets are convenient for long-term storage. They are typically more stable and have a longer shelf life compared to liquid rennet. Tablets need to be dissolved in water before use.

Advantages of Liquid Rennet

Let’s break down why you might opt for liquid rennet:

• Easy to Measure: Liquid rennet allows for precise measurement, which is particularly useful when making smaller batches of cheese. You can accurately measure the exact amount needed for your recipe.
• Immediate Use: No need to dissolve it in water before use, saving you a step in the cheese-making process. This can be especially handy when you’re in the flow of making cheese and don’t want to stop.
• Variety: Liquid rennet is available in both animal and vegetable forms, allowing you to choose based on dietary preferences or specific cheese types.

Disadvantages of Liquid Rennet

Of course, nothing is without its downsides:

• Shelf Life: Liquid rennet typically has a shorter shelf life compared to tablets and requires refrigeration. Over time, its potency can decrease, leading to less effective curd formation.
• Sensitivity: It’s sensitive to temperature and light, so you need to store it properly to maintain its effectiveness. If left out, it can quickly lose its ability to coagulate milk.

Advantages of Tablet Rennet

Now let’s look at what makes tablet rennet a great option:

• Long Shelf Life: Tablets are more stable and have a longer shelf life compared to liquid rennet. They don’t require refrigeration, making them easier to store.
• Consistent Potency: Tablets maintain their potency over a long period, ensuring that your rennet will still be effective even after months of storage.
• Ease of Storage: Tablets are compact and easy to store, ideal if you don’t have much space or if you buy in bulk.

Disadvantages of Tablet Rennet

Tablet rennet isn’t perfect either. Here are a few challenges:

• Preparation Time: Tablets must be dissolved in water before use, adding an extra step to your cheese-making process. This can be a minor inconvenience but is something to consider.
• Measuring Difficulty: It can be challenging to measure exact quantities if you’re making small batches. Tablets are usually designed for larger batches, making precise measurements tricky.
• Availability: Depending on where you live, it might be harder to find tablets compared to liquid rennet.

Usage Tips

Here are some practical tips to help you, Anna, decide between liquid and tablet rennet:

• Batch Size: If you make smaller batches frequently, liquid rennet is probably more convenient. For larger batches, tablets can be more economical and easier to use.
• Storage: If you lack refrigeration space, tablets are more convenient. They are stable at room temperature and have a longer shelf life.
• Experience Level: For beginners, liquid rennet can be easier to use due to its straightforward measurement and immediate use.

Choosing the Right Rennet for Specific Cheeses

The type of cheese you want to make can also influence your choice of rennet:

1. Soft Cheeses: Liquid rennet works well for soft cheeses like ricotta or mozzarella due to its ease of measurement and immediate use.
2. Hard Cheeses: For hard cheeses like cheddar or parmesan, tablet rennet can be advantageous due to its consistent potency and longer storage capabilities.
3. Specialty Cheeses: Depending on the specific cheese and its requirements, either type can be used effectively. For specialty artisanal cheeses, you might want to experiment with both to see which one gives you the desired texture and flavor.

Buyer’s Guide

When purchasing rennet, consider these pointers:

• Check Expiry Dates: Always check expiration dates, especially for liquid rennet. Freshness impacts effectiveness.
• Read Reviews: Look for reviews or recommendations, especially if you’re trying a new brand.
• Storage Instructions: Follow storage instructions meticulously. This will ensure your rennet remains effective over time.

Where to Buy Rennet

You can find both liquid and tablet rennet in various places, including:

• Cheese-making Suppliers: Specialized stores often carry a range of rennet options.
• Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon or specialty cheese-making sites offer a wide selection and reviews.
• Local Stores: Some gourmet shops or health food stores might carry rennet, especially if they have a cheese-making section.

Sustainability and Ethical Considerations

If sustainability or ethical considerations are important to you, here’s what you should know:

• Animal vs. Vegetable Rennet: Liquid rennet is often available in both animal and vegetable forms. Choose an option based on your ethical considerations. Tablet rennet tends to be primarily animal-based but can sometimes be found in vegetarian varieties.
• Local vs. Imported: Buying locally-produced rennet can reduce your environmental footprint compared to imported options.

Practical Examples

Let’s put all this information into context with some practical examples:

• Mozzarella: It’s a popular choice for beginners and works wonderfully with liquid rennet. The ease of measurement can really simplify the process.
• Cheddar: Making cheddar might be a bit more involved, but if you’re ready to experiment, tablet rennet offers consistent results over the long maturing process.

Final Thoughts…

Anna, thanks so much for your question. Venturing into cheese making is such a rewarding endeavor, and choosing the right rennet is a big step toward making your efforts successful. Liquid rennet is generally more flexible and easier to use for beginners, but tablet rennet’s long shelf life and stability make it a worthy contender for larger or long-term projects. Remember, the best choice often comes down to your specific needs and preferences. Have fun experimenting and happy cheese making!