Step 1

Add milk, cream, and salt to a medium saucepan. Cook over medium to medium-high heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching, until milk reaches 190° F. Remove pan from heat and add the lemon juice, then stir it just once or twice, gently and slowly, to incorporate. Let pan sit undisturbed for 10 minutes to let curds form.

Step 2

Wet a double layer of cheesecloth and ring out. Lay cheesecloth over the inside of a fine mesh strainer or colander that is set over a large heatproof bowl. Pour the curds and whey into the colander and let the curds strain for at least an hour, for very tender and loose ricotta. Strain for an additional hour or two for a ricotta that is firmer, like a very soft and tender cream cheese. Discard whey or save it for another use. Remove ricotta from the cheesecloth and enjoy immediately or store refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Step 3

To serve the ricotta with honey and herbs...in a small dish with sides, mound some of the ricotta in the center. Drizzle a bit of honey over and around the ricotta and then scatter lightly with fresh thyme and rosemary. Finish with a sprinkling of flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately with crisp salty crackers. Some blackberries would be lovely with this, too!