Bushra Griffith
Feta is a white crumbly Greek cheese traditionally made from sheep's milk or a combination of sheep and goat's milk. It is best when eaten fresh, but if you have an unused chunk of feta cheese, there are several ways to store it. Feta is usually shipped in a salt brine, and you can easily make your own brine by combining one cup of water with two teaspoons of kosher salt. The brine will add depth to the cheese and retain its pleasant saltiness. If you want to reduce the saltiness of the cheese, you can soak it in a milk bath or fresh water, or marinate it in olive oil with herbs and garlic. You can also freeze feta cheese, but this is better for crumbled feta as it is easier to thaw.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Storage Temperature | Room temperature or refrigerated |
| Storage Solution | Brine, milk, olive oil, freezer |
| Storage Container | Airtight container, plastic wrap, paper |
| Storage Duration | Up to 3-4 weeks, up to 3 months |
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What You'll Learn
How to make a brine solution for storing feta cheese
Feta cheese is a staple in many kitchens and is a delicious Greek aged cheese that is traditionally made from sheep's milk or a combination of sheep and goat's milk. When exposed to air, feta cheese starts to dry out and the flavour becomes sharply sour. To prevent this, feta cheese is often stored in brine—a combination of water and salt—which both flavours and preserves the cheese.
Firstly, the water used should be at room temperature. If you find it difficult to dissolve salt in the water, heat half of the water, dissolve the salt in it, and then combine it with cold water. If the solution is still warm, bring it to room temperature before using it. It is important to never store feta cheese in warm water.
Secondly, when it comes to salt, it is recommended to use kosher salt when making brine. This is because it is not just a flavouring agent but also helps the cheese to remain firm. Table salt does not have the same effect, and plain water will not work either. The general recommendation is a 10-15% salt brine, and you can adjust the volume of water and salt depending on the size of your storing container. For a quart of water, you can add 2-3 tablespoons of salt or 1/3 cup of kosher salt. For a cup of water, use 1-2 teaspoons of kosher salt.
Finally, cut the leftover feta cheese into cubes and place them in the brine solution, ensuring that all pieces of cheese are covered well. You can store a whole or half block of feta cheese in the brine if you prefer. Seal the container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 weeks.
Now you know how to make a brine solution, you can enjoy your feta cheese for longer!
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Storing feta cheese in olive oil
Firstly, cut the feta cheese into cubes or slices. The smaller the pieces, the more surface area the olive oil will be able to cover and preserve. You can also add other ingredients, such as herbs, spices, and garlic, to further enhance the flavour. Oregano, thyme, and garlic are all popular additions.
Next, prepare a glass jar with a tight seal lid. Layer the feta with your chosen ingredients, ensuring that the cheese is completely submerged in the oil. If using garlic, be aware that it carries a risk of botulism, a serious foodborne illness, due to its low acidity. To inhibit the development of spores, feta preserved in olive oil should be stored in the refrigerator and not at room temperature.
When stored correctly, feta cheese submerged in olive oil will last for at least two to three weeks in the refrigerator. The oil will congeal in the fridge, so allow it to sit at room temperature for one to two hours before serving. You can use the leftover oil in salad dressings, over pasta, or as a dipping oil.
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Freezing feta cheese
Feta cheese can be frozen for up to three months. However, freezing feta will affect its texture and taste. It is recommended to freeze feta in brine, as this will help to maintain its salty flavour. To freeze feta in brine, start by blotting the cheese with a towel to absorb any excess water. Then, cut the feta into appropriate sizes for later use, as it will be difficult to cut the cheese precisely once it is frozen. Next, wrap the feta in freezer paper and place it into a resealable freezer bag. Squeeze out any excess air from the bag to maintain its freshness and label the bag with the name and date.
If you do not want to freeze feta in brine, you can vacuum seal the cheese. This method is recommended if you do not want the acidity level of the feta to change. You can also freeze feta in olive oil with herbs and spices. However, this method will add flavour to the cheese. Another option is to freeze feta dry. To do this, lay the cheese in a single layer on a sheet of parchment paper and wrap it tightly in plastic several times, minimising air exposure.
It is important to note that freezing feta will alter its taste and texture. Feta that has been frozen may become more bland and fragmented. Therefore, it is best to use frozen feta in cooked dishes such as pasta, spanakopita, quiche or pizza rather than eating it as an appetizer.
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Storing feta cheese in milk
Feta cheese is a fresh, unripened cheese that can be made from sheep, goat, or cow's milk. When exposed to air, feta cheese starts to dry out and develop a sharp, sour flavour. To prevent this, feta cheese is often packaged in a brine solution, which is a combination of water and salt. The brine both flavours and preserves the cheese, giving it its characteristic salty taste.
If you have purchased feta cheese without brine or have discarded the liquid, you can make your own brine solution by combining two cups of water with two teaspoons of kosher salt. Stir the mixture until the salt dissolves, and then store the feta cheese in the brine, ensuring that the cheese is completely covered. This will help maintain the texture and flavour of the cheese and allow it to last for up to 3-4 weeks in the refrigerator.
Alternatively, you can store feta cheese in olive oil. Cut the cheese into cubes and place them in a storage container. Cover the cheese with olive oil and seal the container. You can also add fresh herbs, spices, or garlic to the oil for additional flavour. This method will keep the feta cheese fresh for up to 3 weeks in the refrigerator.
Another option for storing feta cheese is to freeze it. Freezing is particularly suitable for crumbled feta and can be done in resealable bags for up to 3 months. However, it is important to note that freezing may alter the texture and flavour of the cheese, making it less suitable for eating as-is. Instead, thawed frozen feta can be used in recipes such as pasta, quiches, or pizzas.
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How to tell if feta cheese has gone bad
Feta cheese is a delicious addition to many dishes, but it can be tricky to store. It has a limited shelf life and is susceptible to harmful bacteria growth if left at room temperature. So, how can you tell if your feta has gone bad?
Firstly, always check your feta cheese for signs of spoilage before using it. Feta cheese that has gone bad will often have a funny taste, such as being overly sour or bitter. It may also exhibit noticeable signs of mold growth, with dark or green discolouration. If you see any amount of mold on your feta cheese, it is best to throw it away, as mold spores can spread through this type of cheese very easily.
Another sign that your feta cheese has gone bad is a change in texture. Good feta cheese should not be gritty, grainy, dry, or slimy. If your feta feels this way, it is best to discard it.
Additionally, pay attention to any strange odours coming from your feta cheese. A sour or "funky" smell is an indication that your feta has gone bad and should be thrown out.
Proper storage is key to keeping your feta cheese fresh and preventing it from going bad. Feta in brine should be treated like fresh mozzarella, and crumbles can be stored in their original container. If you have leftover feta blocks, you can store them in a sealed container or airtight bag, or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out or absorbing odours from other foods. You can also preserve leftover feta blocks in brine, olive oil, or by freezing them.
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Frequently asked questions
Feta cheese chunks can be stored in a brine solution. This involves dissolving 2 teaspoons of kosher salt in 1 cup of water and submerging the cheese in the solution. The feta must be completely covered by the brine and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 weeks.
Feta cheese can also be stored in a milk bath, olive oil, or frozen. A milk bath will result in a creamier and less salty flavour. Freezing is recommended for crumbled feta, as it is easier to thaw, and can be stored in resealable bags for up to 3 months.
Feta cheese stored in brine or a milk bath can last for up to 3 months in the refrigerator. When stored in olive oil, feta can last for up to 3 weeks.
