Bushra Griffith
Feta cheese is a relatively expensive delicacy with a short shelf life. However, it can be preserved in olive oil for up to three weeks, providing a distinct taste. This method of preservation is popular in Italy and Mediterranean countries, where olive oil is used to preserve cheese, fish and vegetables. To store feta cheese in olive oil, cut the cheese into cubes and place them in a clean, dry glass jar with an airtight lid. Ensure the cheese is fully submerged in the oil, then seal the jar and store it in the refrigerator or a cool, dark pantry. The olive oil acts as a preservative by creating an oxygen-free environment where bacteria cannot thrive, while also infusing the cheese with flavour.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Preservation | Feta cheese can be preserved in olive oil for 2-3 weeks |
| Container | Glass jar with a tight lid |
| Oil | High-quality olive oil, or a blend of olive oil and lighter vegetable oil |
| Preparation | Cut feta into cubes and fully submerge in oil |
| Add-ins | Herbs, spices, chillies, garlic, lemon zest, dried peppers |
| Storage | Store in a cool, dark place or refrigerate |
| Consume | Bring to room temperature before serving |
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What You'll Learn
Use high-quality olive oil
Using high-quality olive oil is essential when storing feta cheese. While extra virgin olive oil is a good choice, you can also experiment with lighter olive oils or blends of olive oil and other vegetable oils, such as sunflower oil. The type of olive oil you choose will impact the flavour of your feta, so it's worth selecting a variety that complements the cheese well.
High-quality olive oil acts as a natural preservative, protecting the feta from air exposure and delaying moulding. It maintains the moisture and salt content of the cheese, keeping it soft, moist, and flavourful. This method ensures that your feta cheese remains edible for two to three weeks in the refrigerator, a significant improvement over the few days it would last if left unpreserved.
To ensure the olive oil is of high quality, it should be stored correctly before use. Olive oil should be kept in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard, and stored in an airtight container to prevent oxidation and maintain its freshness.
Once you've chosen your olive oil, it's crucial to completely submerge the feta cheese in the oil. Any exposed crumbles of cheese can introduce unwanted moulds and bacteria, compromising the entire batch. Therefore, always make sure your container is filled with enough olive oil to cover the cheese entirely.
High-quality olive oil provides a delicious base for your feta cheese, and you can further enhance the flavour by adding herbs, spices, and other ingredients. This allows you to create a unique blend that suits your personal taste preferences.
Remember, the quality of the olive oil you use directly impacts the flavour and preservation of your feta cheese, so it's worth investing in a reputable brand or variety known for its freshness and flavour.
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Ensure cheese is fully submerged
Ensuring that your feta cheese is fully submerged in olive oil is crucial for effective preservation. Leaving any part of the cheese exposed to air can introduce unwanted moulds and bacteria, compromising the entire jar. Therefore, it is essential to use a jar that is the right size for the amount of cheese you are storing. A half-filled jar will not do—every piece of feta must be covered in oil.
To achieve this, cut the feta into cubes or slices to create more manageable chunks. Place these chunks into a clean, dry glass jar with an airtight or tight-lid seal. Then, cover the cheese entirely with olive oil. The olive oil acts as a preservative by creating an oxygen-free environment where bacteria cannot thrive, so it is important that the oil is covering the cheese completely.
Once the cheese is fully submerged, you can add herbs, spices, and other ingredients to enhance the flavour further. Experimenting with different ingredients allows you to create a unique flavour blend tailored to your personal preference.
Finally, seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or refrigerator. The feta cheese will last indefinitely in a cool and dark pantry or for about two to three weeks in the refrigerator.
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Store in a tight-lid jar
Storing feta cheese in olive oil is a great way to prolong its life and add flavour. To store it in a tight-lid jar, follow these steps:
Firstly, cut the feta into cubes or slices. This will make it easier to fit into the jar and ensure each piece is fully submerged in the oil. Place the feta chunks into a clean, dry glass jar. It is important that the jar is clean to avoid any unwanted bacteria or mould.
Next, prepare your olive oil. It is recommended to use high-quality olive oil, such as extra virgin olive oil, to ensure the best flavour and longevity. You can also experiment with different oils, such as sunflower oil or vegetable oil, and create your own blend. Pour the oil into the jar until all the feta pieces are completely covered. It is crucial that the feta is entirely submerged, as any exposed parts can introduce unwanted mould and bacteria.
Now, it's time to add your desired herbs and spices. You can tailor this to your personal preference and create a unique flavour profile. Some popular options include dried oregano, parsley, chilli flakes, garlic, and lemon zest. Don't be afraid to experiment and find what works best for your taste buds. Once you've added your chosen ingredients, give the jar a gentle shake to distribute the flavours evenly.
Finally, seal the jar tightly with its lid. You can now store your marinated feta in the refrigerator. It is recommended to let it sit for at least 24 hours before consuming to allow the flavours to infuse. When you're ready to serve, simply take it out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours to allow the oil to liquify. Your feta cheese in olive oil should last for about two to three weeks in the fridge. Enjoy!
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Add herbs and spices
Storing feta cheese in olive oil is a great way to preserve it and enhance its flavour. Adding herbs and spices to the mix can further elevate the taste and create unique flavour combinations. Here are some tips and suggestions for adding herbs and spices to your feta and olive oil concoction:
Choose Your Herbs and Spices
The beauty of adding herbs and spices is that you can experiment with different combinations to find your favourite flavour profile. Here are some popular options:
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for a fragrant touch
- Crushed red pepper flakes or dried chilli peppers for a spicy kick
- Thinly sliced or minced garlic for an earthy flavour
- Lemon zest to add a hint of citrus
- Oregano for a tangy twist
- Parsley for freshness
- Jalapeno slices for some extra heat
Prepare the Herbs and Spices
You can add the herbs and spices directly to the olive oil before pouring it over the feta cheese. This allows the flavours to infuse into the oil and cheese. Alternatively, you can place the herbs and spices directly into the jar with the feta cheese, ensuring they are submerged in the olive oil.
Experiment with Flavour Combinations
Don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different herbs and spices. Try combining rosemary and oregano, or adding jalapeno peppers to your garlic and lemon zest mixture. You can also adjust the amount of herbs and spices added to suit your taste preferences. Remember, the key is to have fun and explore the endless flavour possibilities!
Storage and Serving
Once you have added your herbs and spices, ensure the feta cheese is completely submerged in the olive oil and store it in a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Keep it in the refrigerator for at least 24 to 48 hours before serving to allow the flavours to meld. The oil may solidify in the refrigerator, so let it sit at room temperature for an hour or two before serving to liquify it again.
Your herbed and spiced feta cheese can be enjoyed as an appetizer, crumbled over salads, mixed into pasta, or spread on toasted baguette slices or crackers. The leftover oil can be used as a salad dressing, marinade, or drizzle for roasted vegetables.
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Consume within two to three weeks
Feta cheese stored in olive oil should be consumed within two to three weeks. To ensure it lasts this long, it is important to follow proper storage techniques. Firstly, cut the feta cheese into cubes or slices to make it more manageable. Place the feta cheese chunks into a clean, dry glass jar with an airtight lid. Then, pour in extra virgin olive oil, ensuring that the cheese is completely submerged in the oil.
It is crucial that every piece of feta cheese is covered in oil, as any exposed parts may introduce unwanted moulds and bacteria, compromising the entire jar. Once the jar is filled, seal it tightly and store it in the fridge. The olive oil will congeal in the refrigerator, so allow it to sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours before serving to let it liquify.
You can also experiment with different flavourings by adding herbs, spices, and other ingredients to the mix. For example, dried and crushed red pepper flakes, fresh parsley, dried oregano, lemon zest, dried chillies, and jalapeno slices can be added to enhance the flavour of the feta cheese. However, be mindful not to break up the cubed feta when adding these ingredients.
Remember to always use high-quality olive oil and feta cheese, as this will help avoid bitterness and ensure the feta lasts as long as possible. With proper storage and high-quality ingredients, your feta cheese in olive oil should stay fresh and flavourful for the intended two to three weeks.
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Frequently asked questions
Feta cheese stored in olive oil will last for about two to three weeks in the fridge.
It is best to use a glass jar with a tight lid to store feta cheese in olive oil.
Cut the feta cheese into cubes or slices and place them in the jar. Ensure that the cheese is fully submerged in the oil.
Yes, you can add herbs, spices, and other ingredients to enhance the flavour of the feta cheese.
