Randy Chandler
Feta cheese is a delicious addition to many dishes, but it can be tricky to store. If you've ever bought a block of feta, you know that it's often packaged in a cloudy liquid called brine, which is a combination of water and salt that helps preserve the cheese. When feta is exposed to air, it starts to dry out and turn sour. So, what's the best way to store feta cheese after opening to keep it fresh and tasty?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Container | Tupperware |
| Feta coverage | Water, brine or oil |
| Lid | Securely closed |
| Temperature | Refrigerated |
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What You'll Learn
Store feta cheese in brine
Feta cheese is often packaged in brine, a combination of water and salt that preserves and flavours the cheese. If you accidentally toss out the liquid or buy feta that doesn't come in brine, you can make your own.
To store feta cheese in brine, start by cutting up the cheese so that it fits in the container you plan to store it in. Make sure that the container is a Tupperware or any other airtight container that closes securely. The brine is essential in keeping the cheese from drying out and developing a sour flavour.
Next, you'll want to make the brine solution. In a pot, boil two cups of water for every two teaspoons of kosher salt, or one tablespoon of regular salt, that you plan to use. Stir the solution until the salt dissolves, then let it cool completely. Once it's cooled, fill your container with the brine, making sure that the cheese is covered completely.
If you don't eat cheese often, change out the brine every second week or so. You can also store feta cheese in plain water, which will help maintain its crumbly texture without adding any extra flavour.
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Make your own brine with water and salt
Feta cheese is often packaged in brine, a combination of water and salt that preserves and flavours the cheese. If you accidentally toss out the liquid or if your feta comes without brine, you can make your own brine by combining water and salt.
To make your own brine with water and salt, combine one teaspoon of kosher salt for every cup of water. You can also use one-third cup of kosher salt with one quart of water. Stir the mixture until the salt dissolves. The general recommendation is a 10-15% salt brine, so you can adjust the ratio depending on the volume of your container and your desired salinity. For a saltier brine, you can add a little calcium chloride to the water.
Once you've made your brine, completely submerge the leftover feta in an airtight container. This will ensure that your feta maintains its texture and flavour. If your feta is already very salty, you can store it in plain water to maintain its texture without adding unnecessary flavour.
The brine can also be used as a delicious ingredient. After you've finished the cheese, you can use the leftover liquid to brine poultry or make sauces and dressings.
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Feta cheese can be frozen
To freeze feta cheese, first pat it dry using a clean paper towel. This step is important because water forms crystals when frozen, which can affect the taste and texture of the cheese. Next, cut the cheese into smaller portions or crumble it. You can also freeze feta cheese whole if you prefer. Wrap each piece of cheese in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. Make sure to remove excess air from the bag and seal it tightly. Label the bag with the date of freezing and place it in the freezer.
When you are ready to use the frozen feta cheese, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. You can also thaw it quickly by placing the cheese in a bowl of cold water for a couple of hours. Once thawed, use the feta cheese within 72 hours. Do not refreeze the cheese, as this can promote bacteria growth and cause food poisoning.
Freezing feta cheese is a great way to prevent waste and extend its shelf life. However, it is important to note that the freezing process may alter the taste and texture of the cheese.
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Feta cheese can be stored in olive oil
Feta cheese is expensive, and it can be a waste to throw it away if you don't consume it quickly enough. One of the best ways to store feta cheese and make it last longer is to store it in olive oil.
Oil is an excellent preservative and has been traditionally used to store vegetables, herbs, and cheeses, especially in the Mediterranean region, where olive oil is abundant and affordable. When stored correctly, foods preserved in oil can last for months without refrigeration, provided they are kept in a cool, dark place.
To store feta cheese in olive oil, start by breaking the cheese into 1-inch chunks. It is recommended to use a tight-lid glass jar for storage. Place the feta chunks in the jar and completely submerge them in olive oil. You can also add herbs, spices, and other ingredients to enhance the flavour. For example, mix olive oil with fresh parsley, dried oregano, lemon zest, dried chillies, and jalapeno slices, and then pour this mixture into the jar with the feta.
Always use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to avoid bitterness and ensure the feta lasts longer. Additionally, make sure the feta is entirely covered in oil, as any part left above the oil will spoil. The marinated feta in olive oil will maintain its salt content, remain moist, and benefit from the additional flavours of the olive oil. It can be stored in the refrigerator for at least two to three weeks.
The leftover oil can also be used in salad dressings, over pasta, or as a dipping oil. It is important to note that feta cheese should not be kept at room temperature for extended periods to inhibit the development of spores that can cause botulism, a serious foodborne illness.
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Change the brine once a week
Feta cheese is typically shipped and stored in a salt brine—a combination of water and salt that preserves the cheese and gives it its salty flavour. To keep your feta cheese fresh for longer, it's important to change the brine regularly.
When making your own brine, combine two cups of water with two teaspoons of kosher salt, stirring until the salt dissolves. You can also use a ratio of one quart of water to three tablespoons of kosher or coarse salt. The key is to ensure that all the cheese is fully submerged in the brine; otherwise, the exposed parts will begin to mould.
For optimal freshness, change the brine once a week. This will ensure that your feta cheese maintains its flavour and texture, preventing it from drying out and becoming sour. By regularly changing the brine, you can extend the shelf life of your feta cheese and enjoy its tangy flavour in salads, omelettes, pasta, and more.
In addition to changing the brine, it is essential to store the feta cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help maintain the quality and freshness of the cheese, allowing you to savour its delicious taste for a more extended period.
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Frequently asked questions
Feta cheese can be stored in brine—a combination of water and salt—which both flavours and preserves the cheese. If your feta didn't come packaged in brine, you can make your own by combining two cups of water with two teaspoons of kosher salt, or one quart of water with three tablespoons of kosher or coarse salt.
If you don't have any brine, you can store your feta in plain water. The water will help to preserve the crumbly texture of the cheese without adding any extra flavour.
If you're using brine to store your feta, it's recommended that you change the brine once a week. The water will last longer than the cheese, but if you don't eat cheese often, you should change the water every two weeks or so.
