[header] How to drain ricotta cheese [title] Use this method to drain freshly-made ricotta, or to prepare ricotta for use in recipes. [step] If you, you'll need to drain the liquid away once the hot ricotta has sat for fifteen minutes. You may also use this method to transform moist, cream-cheese consistency ricotta into a ricotta with firmer curds for use in cooking. 
[title] Line a strainer or colander with cheesecloth or paper towels. [step] A fine mesh strainer may do the best job of draining thoroughly, but a colander will also work.