Feta Cheese Alternatives: Similar Cheeses To Try

what is an alternate to feta cheese

Feta is a hard, white cheese made from sheep's milk and aged in brine. It has a unique tangy, salty flavour and a firm, crumbly texture. Feta is a popular ingredient in Greek cuisine, although it is also made in other countries such as Denmark and Bulgaria. If you're looking for an alternative to feta, there are several options to consider, depending on whether you're looking for a similar flavour or texture. For a similar flavour, you could try other salty cheeses such as halloumi, queso fresco, ricotta salata, or sirene. For a similar texture, you could try other crumbly cheeses such as cotija, paneer, or goat cheese. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, options include tofu, almonds, avocado, or hummus.

Characteristics Values
Type Dairy and non-dairy alternatives
Dairy alternatives Ricotta salata, Ricotta, Halloumi, Persian feta, Goat cheese, Danish feta, Cow's milk feta, Paneer, Cottage cheese, Queso fresco, Queso fresco adobera, Sirene
Non-dairy alternatives Tofu, Hummus, Avocado, Almonds, Olives, Sun-dried tomatoes, Capers

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Vegan feta

Ingredients and Preparation

There are various recipes for vegan feta, but most involve a combination of nuts, tofu, and plant-based oils. One popular recipe includes cashews, almonds, and coconut oil. The nuts are softened by soaking or boiling and then blended with coconut oil, lemon juice, white miso paste, olive brine, oregano, and salt. This mixture is then chilled to allow the cheese to firm up and become sliceable or crumbly, similar to traditional feta.

Another recipe for vegan feta involves using extra-firm tofu that is cut into cubes and marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs. This tofu-based feta is lighter in texture and is often used in salads or crumbled over roasted vegetables.

Commercial Options

In addition to homemade recipes, there are also commercial options available for vegan feta. For example, Violife's "Just Like Feta" is a dairy-free and vegan product made using coconut oil and other plant-based ingredients. It is free from soy, gluten, lactose, nuts, and artificial preservatives. Another option is to purchase vegan feta from specialty grocery stores, such as Trader Joe's in the United States, which offers a vegan feta option that is similar to regular feta in texture.

Serving Suggestions

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Ricotta salata

As a salty, tangy, and crumbly cheese, ricotta salata can be a suitable alternative to feta cheese. Feta is a hard, white cheese made from sheep's milk and aged in brine, giving it a unique salty and tangy flavour. If you're looking for alternatives to feta, you might consider other salty and tangy options like Persian feta, halloumi, or fresh goat cheese. For dairy-free alternatives, you can try avocado, tofu, or blended almonds seasoned with salt.

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Halloumi

There are two main types of halloumi: fresh and mature. Fresh halloumi has a semi-hard, elastic texture and a mild, less salty flavour compared to the aged version. Mature halloumi is stored in brine, which gives it a harder, drier texture and a saltier taste. Both versions have a slight minty flavour due to the addition of spearmint during production.

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Nuts and seeds

Almonds

Almonds can be used to create a feta-like cheese that works in some recipes. Soaking and blending almonds gives them a creamy texture reminiscent of feta. While the nutty flavour of almonds differs from the tangy taste of feta, adding salt during preparation can help bring it closer to the salty flavour of feta.

Pine Nuts, Pistachios, Macadamias, and Cashews

Similar to almonds, these nuts can be blended to create a creamy texture. Seasoning them with salt can enhance their salty flavour, making them a tasty alternative to feta.

Roasted Almonds

For a crunchy and flavourful addition to your dish, consider using roasted almonds. They provide a different texture and flavour profile compared to feta but still offer a satisfying salty hit.

Hummus

Hummus can be a suitable alternative to feta in vegan or Mediterranean recipes. Its creamy and savoury profile, often with hints of tahini, adds a unique flavour and texture to dishes. While it lacks the crumbly texture of feta, hummus works well as a dip, spread, or creamy element in Mediterranean wraps and bowls.

Avocado

Avocado is a notably different alternative to feta in terms of texture and flavour. It has a creamy, buttery texture and a mild, nutty taste. Adding a teaspoon of lemon or lime juice to the avocado can enhance its tanginess, bringing it closer to the tangy profile of feta. Avocado works well as a substitute for feta in salads and wraps.

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Goat's milk feta

Feta is a Greek cheese, heavily salted and mildly aged. It is traditionally made with goat or sheep milk, but it can also be made with cow's milk with the addition of lipase powder. Goat's milk feta is a crumbly feta with sharp, tangy flavours. It is perfect for summer salads, pizza, or as a topping for creamy soups.

If you are looking for alternatives to feta cheese, there are several options. For a vegan option, you can try tofu marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs. Hummus can also be used to add creaminess to dishes, although it lacks the crumbly texture of feta. Avocado is another alternative, providing a creamy, buttery texture and a mild, nutty taste. If you are looking for a dairy alternative, cottage cheese is a milder, creamier, and less salty option.

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Frequently asked questions

Some alternatives to feta cheese include halloumi, cottage cheese, ricotta salata, paneer, queso fresco, and vegan feta cheese.

Some non-dairy alternatives to feta cheese include tofu, hummus, avocado, and almonds.

Some alternatives to feta cheese with a similar texture include halloumi, cottage cheese, ricotta salata, paneer, and queso fresco.

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