Grocery
Feta Cheese
What it is
Feta is a brined curd white cheese made from sheep's milk, or from a mixture of sheep and goat's milk. It is a crumbly cheese, often aged in barrels. The cheese is known for its salty and tangy flavor profile. It is a traditional food product from Greece. The texture can vary from soft and creamy to firm and crumbly depending on the aging process and milk content. It is a versatile cheese used in many dishes.
How people cook with it
This cheese is commonly used in salads and savory dishes. It adds a distinct salty and tangy dimension to many recipes.
- Crumbled over salads
- Baked into pastries
- Added to omelets
- Mixed into dips
Feta can be used in numerous ways in the kitchen. It is often crumbled over Greek salads, adding a salty bite that complements the fresh vegetables and olives. It can also be incorporated into warm dishes, such as baked pasta dishes or stuffed vegetables, where its flavor intensifies with heat. For a simple appetizer, it can be drizzled with olive oil and herbs. It also works well in savory pies and tarts, providing a rich, briny contrast to other ingredients. Its crumbly nature makes it easy to distribute its flavor throughout a dish.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike firmer cheeses, feta is typically brined, which contributes to its characteristic salty taste and slightly moist texture. Its crumbly nature sets it apart from cheeses that are smooth or melt into a stringy consistency. The tanginess is also more pronounced than in many other white cheeses.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs enjoy using feta for its unique flavor and texture.
How to keep the rest
Once opened, store any remaining feta submerged in its brine or a light saltwater solution in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain its moisture and flavor. It should be used within a few days for optimal freshness.