Ostovalintoja

Ostovalintoja, also known as "ostoventti" or "ostokone," is a traditional Finnish appliance used for making cheese. It is a simple yet effective tool that has been used for centuries in Finnish households. The device consists of a wooden or metal frame with a cloth or cheesecloth bag attached to it. The bag is filled with curdled milk, which is then hung in a cool, dark place for several days to weeks. During this time, the weight of the curdled milk causes the cheesecloth to press out the whey, leaving behind a solid cheese.

The process of making cheese with ostovalintoja is a labor-intensive one, requiring patience and attention to detail. The curdled milk must be carefully monitored to ensure that it does not spoil or become over-ripened. Once the cheese is ready, it is removed from the bag and allowed to age further before being consumed.

Ostovalintoja is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of Finnish people, who have long relied on simple, traditional tools to meet their basic needs. While modern cheese-making equipment has largely replaced ostovalintoja in contemporary society, the device remains an important part of Finnish cultural heritage. It is often used in traditional cheese-making workshops and demonstrations, where visitors can learn about the art of cheese-making and the history of this ancient tool.