Patrick Oconnell
Feta cheese is a Greek delicacy that has become a popular ingredient in dishes worldwide. When looking for feta cheese in a grocery store, one should typically head to the cheese aisle. In this paragraph, we will discuss the various factors to consider when purchasing feta cheese, including its origin, texture, and intended use.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Aisle | Cheese |
| Type of Cheese | Feta |
| Origin | Greek |
| Other Names | N/A |
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What You'll Learn
Feta cheese is typically found in the cheese aisle
When shopping for feta cheese, it's best to opt for plain feta as seasonings and marinades can mask the true flavour of the cheese. If you're looking for the freshest product, it's also better to avoid the containers of pre-crumbled feta cheese. These usually contain powdered cellulose or another form of anti-caking agent, which can make the cheese taste dry and hard. Pre-crumbled feta also has a very short shelf life, lasting only a few days in the fridge once opened.
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The best feta cheese is firm, creamy, tangy and rich
Feta cheese is usually found in the cheese aisle of your local grocery store.
Identifying the Best Feta Cheese
The best feta cheese is firm and crumbly but still creamy. It is tangy and rich, with a salty and grassy flavour. It should be moist, with a mild bite.
Feta cheese is traditionally made in Greece from sheep's milk or a blend of sheep and goat's milk. The milk from Greece is said to have a unique flavour that cannot be replicated. When shopping for feta cheese, look for Greek feta cheese made from these types of milk. It is best to avoid pre-crumbled feta cheese as it tends to be dry and can develop a weird film, giving it a chalky texture. Instead, opt for a block of feta cheese that is packed in brine, which helps preserve its flavour, texture, and freshness.
Some recommended brands for the best feta cheese include Mt. Vikos, a traditional Greek feta praised for its rich and creamy flavour, and Whole Foods, which offers a 16-ounce block of feta packed in brine, ensuring freshness and moisture.
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Feta cheese from Greece is considered the real deal
Feta cheese is a salty, tangy, crumbly delight. But what is the best feta cheese? Well, the consensus is that the best feta cheese is from Greece. In fact, since 2002, feta has been a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) product within the European Union (EU). This means that only cheeses produced in a traditional way in particular areas of Greece, made from sheep's milk or a mixture of sheep's milk and up to 30% goat's milk from the same area, can be called feta.
The milk from Greece is said to be the secret to great feta, with a unique flavour that cannot be replicated. In Greece, feta is an essential part of the diet, as common as olive oil. It is also often sold in brine, which is quintessential to feta's character and flavour. Without it, the cheese would be dry and rubbery, and lack flavour.
When buying feta, it is best to buy it plain, as seasonings and marinades can mask the true flavour of the cheese. The best feta is firm and crumbly, but still creamy, with a tangy, rich, and salty flavour. It should be noted that feta is often sold crumbled in containers, but this means it may not be as fresh, and the anti-caking agents can make the cheese taste dry and hard.
If you want to ensure you are buying the real deal, look for feta from Greece in the cheese aisle. It may be more expensive, but it is worth it for the flavour and quality.
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Plain feta cheese is better than seasoned or marinated feta
Feta cheese is a Greek delicacy, typically made from sheep's milk, with up to 30% goat's milk. It is salty, semi-hard, and crumbly, with a tangy taste. While feta cheese is a treat on its own, it is also commonly used in salads, pasta, and appetizers.
When buying feta cheese, it is advisable to opt for the plain variety over the seasoned or marinated options. Seasonings and marinades can overpower the true flavor of the cheese, which is a shame if you've bought a high-quality product. Additionally, dried herbs and spices on the cheese can become stale over time. If you're a fan of marinated feta, you can always try marinating plain feta yourself. This way, you can control the ingredients and customize the flavors to suit your taste.
Marinated feta is typically soaked in olive oil and combined with herbs, spices, or other ingredients such as lemon zest, garlic, or chilli. While this can enhance the flavor of the cheese, it is not necessary if you are already working with a high-quality plain feta.
When purchasing feta cheese, it is recommended to buy a block of feta rather than pre-crumbled feta. Crumbled feta often contains anti-caking agents, which can affect the taste and texture. It also has a shorter shelf life once opened. A block of feta will allow you to assess the quality and freshness of the product more easily.
In summary, while there are many tempting varieties of feta cheese available, plain feta is the best option if you want to truly appreciate the flavor and quality of the cheese. If you wish to add some extra flavor, you can always marinate the plain feta yourself, ensuring a delicious and fresh-tasting product.
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Vegan feta cheese is available too
Feta cheese is usually found in the cheese aisle of your local grocery store. If you're looking for the real deal, look for Greek feta, which is made from sheep's milk (and sometimes goat's milk), rennet, and salt.
However, vegan feta cheese is available too. Vegan feta is made from plant-based ingredients like tofu, coconut oil, cashews, almonds, and nutritional yeast. It is a great option for those who are vegan, dairy-free, or have nut or gluten allergies. You can find recipes for vegan feta cheese online, or buy pre-made vegan feta from specialty stores.
Vegan feta is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. It is especially good in salads, such as a classic watermelon and cucumber salad with fresh mint and basil. It can also be crumbled onto flatbreads or pizzas, stuffed into pasta, eggplant, zucchini, or tomatoes, or added to roasted or grilled vegetables. For a simple lunch idea, stuff pita pockets or wraps with hummus, chickpeas, lentils, raw or pickled veggies, and vegan feta.
Vegan feta can also be marinated to enhance its flavor. Marinating the cheese for at least 12 hours will give it a briny, salty taste similar to that of traditional feta.
Whether you're a vegan or a feta enthusiast, vegan feta cheese is a delicious and healthy option to try.
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Frequently asked questions
You can find feta cheese in the cheese aisle of your local grocery store.
If you want authentic feta cheese, look for cheese that is made in Greece from sheep's milk (and maybe some goat's milk). If you live in the US, cow's milk feta is considered feta-style cheese rather than true feta.
Yes, if you want to taste the true flavor of the cheese, it is recommended to buy plain feta without any seasonings or marinades. Containers of crumbled feta cheese are convenient, but you may compromise on the freshness of the product.
