A Brush with Reality (and Oniony milk)

In late October, this email graced my in-box, highlighting the joys and pitfalls of free range cattle operations. I laughed, then prepped for onion milk cheese-making. Normally we drink our milk so fast that I don't want to spare any for cheese, or even butter. I was honestly a little disappointed when my milk turned out to be onion-free that week.

"Hi Shareholders.

Last week we fenced off a paddock from the milking herd where we had spotted some fresh, wild onions. Unfortunately, the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence and our girls, who care more about presumed pasture delicacies than fresh breath, broke through the fence. Although this has never happened before, we can't guarantee that it won't happen again. We can assure you that it won't happen again this season because the girls devoured all the onions!

Off-tasting milk is not yummy to drink but still good for you so here are some recommendations for onion-flavored milk:

Sausage Corn Chowder

• 1 pound sausage
  
• 1 cup diced onions
• 1 cup diced red bell peppers
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups milk
  
• 12 ears corn, sliced from cob and creamed slightly in food processor
  
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• salt and pepper to taste
• 3 teaspoons sliced green scallions (optional)

Over medium-high heat, brown and crumble sausage in soup pot. While sausage begins to brown, add onions and red peppers, cook until tender and sausage is no longer pink. Drain. Add flour, stir well into mixture and cook 5-6 minutes. Add milk and combine with sausage mixture. Add cream corn and simmer for 20-25 minutes until base thickens. Add garlic powder, salt and pepper. Garnish with scallions on top in soup bowl.

Yogurt Cheese

~1 quart plain raw yogurt
~cheese salt
~herbs (basil, garlic, chives, black pepper, and dill)

After making fresh yogurt, pour into colander lined with cheesecloth. Tie corners of the cloth into a knot and hang the bag to drain for 12 - 24 hours, or until the yogurt has stopped dripping and has reached the desired consistency. Remove cheese from bag; add salt and herbs to taste. Store in covered container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. A tasty treat on crackers or bagels.

Feel free to email if you have any questions we might answer regarding the cows' untimely onion episode. We're sorry if this has left a bad taste in your mouth and are sure the future will prove better with predictably delicious milk. Thanks so much for your understanding."