Randy Chandler
Feta is a soft, white Greek cheese made from sheep's milk or a combination of sheep and goat's milk. It is formed into blocks and aged in brine, which gives it a creamy, salty, tangy, and sharp flavour. Feta cheese blocks are typically packaged in brine to prevent the cheese from drying out and turning sour. The size of a block of feta cheese can vary, with some common sizes being 8 ounces or 8.5 ounces.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Weight | 8 oz |
| Ingredients | Sheep's milk, goat's milk, or a combination of both |
| Texture | Creamy, crumbly, slightly grainy |
| Flavor | Salty, tangy, sharp |
| Preservation | Stored in brine, olive oil |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Feta cheese blocks are typically 8 oz
Feta cheese is a soft, white Greek cheese made from sheep's milk or goat's milk, or a combination of both. It is formed into blocks and aged in brine. Feta has a creamy, salty, tangy, and sharp flavour and is often used in salads, baked dishes, and pizzas. It is a very versatile cheese and can be used anywhere that calls for a salty cheese.
When buying feta cheese, it is important to note that only cheese produced in specific regions of Greece using traditional methods and ingredients, such as sheep's milk or a mixture of sheep and goat's milk, can be labelled and sold as "feta". This is protected by E.U. legislation and the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) certification.
Feta cheese is typically imported in brine to keep the cheese block moist and prevent it from drying out. The brine also helps preserve the flavour and texture of the cheese. Blocks of feta cheese packed in brine will generally keep longer than the crumbled version.
Feta cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be crumbled over salads and soups, tossed with roasted vegetables, grains, and pastas, or used in pies and galettes. It can also be preserved in olive oil with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs, which infuses the oil with flavour.
Feta Cheese and Histamine: What's the Connection?
You may want to see also
Blocks are often imported from Greece
Feta cheese is a Greek brined white cheese made from sheep's milk or a mixture of sheep's and goat's milk. It is soft, crumbly, and salty, with a slightly grainy texture. Feta is formed into large blocks and aged in brine, which helps to preserve its flavour and texture. The cheese is produced all over Greece, and it is so popular domestically that very little is exported. However, due to the high demand for feta cheese in Greece and restrictions on unpasteurized milk, it can be difficult to find authentic Greek feta outside of the country.
Authentic Greek feta cheese can be identified by its Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) label, which is awarded by the European Union to products from specific regions or areas that exhibit qualities and characteristics associated with that region. In the case of feta cheese, the PDO ensures that only cheese produced in specific regions of Greece using traditional methods and ingredients, such as sheep's milk or a mixture of sheep's and goat's milk, can be labelled and sold as "feta". This protection designation helps to preserve the cultural heritage and traditional production practices associated with the product, while also preventing imitations or inferior versions from misleading consumers.
The DeLallo Feta Cheese Block, for example, is an authentic Greek cheese that has been imported from Greece and bears the PDO seal on its label. It is made with a blend of 70% sheep's milk and 30% goat's milk and aged in brine for at least two months, developing a rich, salty, and tangy flavour with a creamy, crumbly texture. The cheese is packaged in brine to prevent it from drying out and turning sour.
While feta cheese is now produced in many countries, including the United States, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom, the unique characteristics of Greek feta cheese make it a sought-after product. The traditional production methods and ingredients used in Greece impart a distinct flavour and texture to the cheese, making it a popular choice for consumers seeking an authentic Mediterranean culinary experience.
Feta and Tuna: A Match Made in Heaven?
You may want to see also
Feta is made from sheep or goat's milk
Feta cheese is a Greek brined white cheese made from sheep's milk or a mixture of sheep's and goat's milk. The Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) certification ensures that only cheese produced in specific regions of Greece using traditional methods and ingredients can be labelled and sold as "feta". This means that feta cheese must be made from sheep's milk or a blend of sheep's and goat's milk to be considered authentic.
The PDO seal on the label of a block of feta cheese indicates that it is a certified authentic Greek product. Feta cheese is typically imported in brine to keep the cheese moist and prevent it from drying out. Blocks of feta cheese are commonly available in 8-ounce packages.
The practice of preserving cheese in brine dates back to ancient times, with references to cheese production in Greece as early as the 8th century BC. In Homer's Odyssey, Polyphemus is described as making cheese and dry-storing it in wicker racks, which may have resulted in a rinded cheese similar to modern pecorino and caprino, rather than feta. However, some scholars argue that Polyphemus' cheese was the ancestor of modern feta.
While traditional feta cheese should only include sheep and goat's milk, it is common for cheese sold as "feta" in the US to include cow's milk or even be composed exclusively of cow's milk. To ensure you are purchasing authentic feta cheese made with sheep or goat's milk, look for the PDO certification on the label, which guarantees the use of traditional ingredients and production methods.
When shopping for feta cheese, it is important to read the labels carefully. In the US, cow's milk can be listed simply as "milk" on ingredient lists, while other types of milk, such as goat or sheep's milk, must be identified by their animal name. By law, within the EU and other territories where it is protected, feta cheese must be produced using only whole sheep's milk or a blend of sheep and goat's milk, with a maximum of 30% goat's milk. This legislation ensures that consumers can trust the authenticity and unique attributes of feta cheese.
Feta Cheese: Healthy or Not?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
It's aged in brine to keep it moist
A block of feta cheese typically weighs around 225 grams or 8 ounces, but it can also be commonly found in larger blocks of 1700 grams or 3.75 pounds. This popular cheese is renowned for its tangy, salty flavor and unique texture, which is achieved through a specific aging process. Feta is aged in brine, a solution of salt and water, and this step is crucial to developing its characteristic taste and moist texture. The aging process in brine ensures that feta maintains its moisture content and does not dry out, resulting in a creamy and crumbly texture that is distinct to this cheese.
The brine solution plays a critical role in controlling the moisture content of the cheese. It surrounds the cheese, preventing it from drying out, and the salt in the brine also draws out excess moisture from the feta, creating a semi-firm texture. This process is a delicate balance, as too much brine can result in an overly salty cheese, while too little can lead to a dry and crumbly texture. Thus, the aging time in brine is carefully monitored and controlled.
During the aging process, the brine also serves as a protective barrier, inhibiting the growth of unwanted bacteria and mold. This helps to extend the shelf life of the cheese, ensuring that it remains edible and safe for consumption for a longer period. The salt in the brine also acts as a natural preservative, slowing down the decay process and inhibiting the growth of harmful microorganisms.
The length of time feta is aged in brine can vary depending on the desired flavor and texture. Younger fetas are aged for a shorter period, resulting in a milder flavor and softer texture, while more mature fetas are aged for several months, developing a stronger, tangier taste and firmer consistency. The aging process also affects the cheese's color, with younger cheeses being paler and older ones taking on a more golden hue.
Brine aging also contributes to the development of feta's distinctive tangy and pungent aroma. The brine solution allows for the growth of beneficial bacteria that contribute to this unique fragrance. This aroma is a key characteristic of feta and is often described as a defining feature of this cheese variety.
In summary, aging feta in brine is a crucial step in the production process, ensuring the cheese develops its signature moist texture, tangy flavor, and pungent aroma. This traditional method of preservation and flavor development has contributed to feta's enduring popularity and unique position in the culinary world.
Feta Cheese: A Source of Vitamin D?
You may want to see also
Use it in salads, pastries, or baking
Feta cheese is a soft, white Greek cheese made from sheep or goat's milk, or a combination of the two. It is formed into blocks and aged in brine, resulting in a creamy, salty, tangy, and sharp flavour. Blocks of feta cheese are typically more creamy and flavourful than pre-crumbled feta, which tends to dry out more quickly.
Feta is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, pastries, and baking.
Salads
Feta is a common ingredient in Greek salads, which typically include vegetables such as cucumber, tomatoes, olives, peppers, and red onions. The feta is usually cubed or crumbled and tossed with the other ingredients before being served.
Pastries
Feta can be used as a filling for pastries, such as phyllo dough. It can be baked in the oven until warm and creamy, and served as an appetizer or mezze with pita chips or toasted Italian bread.
Baking
Baked feta pasta is a popular dish that went viral on TikTok. It involves baking a block of feta with tomatoes, olive oil, and various herbs and spices, and then mixing it with pasta. The feta provides a tangy, creamy element to the dish, and the recipe can be adapted to include other ingredients such as shallots, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
Feta can also be fried and drizzled with warmed honey, or baked on its own in a high-heated oven until tender and creamy.
Feta Cheese: Healthy or Fattening?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Feta cheese blocks are commonly sold in 8 oz portions.
Feta cheese is best stored in brine or olive oil to prevent it from drying out and turning sour.
Feta is a soft, white cheese with a creamy, crumbly texture.
Block feta is generally more creamy and flavourful than crumbled feta, which often contains cellulose or another anti-caking agent, reducing its shelf life.
