Grocery
Feta Cheese
What it is
Feta cheese is a brined curd white cheese made in Greece from sheep's milk, or from a mixture of sheep and goat's milk. It is a crumbly, salty cheese with a tangy flavor. The brining process gives it a distinct sharp taste and helps preserve it. Feta is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, known for its versatility and distinctive character. It is often sold in blocks submerged in brine.
How people cook with it
This cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, both hot and cold.
- Crumbled over salads
- Baked into pastries
- Added to omelets
- Served with grilled vegetables
Feta cheese is best enjoyed crumbled or cubed. It can be added directly to salads for a salty, tangy bite. When baking, it can be incorporated into pies, tarts, or stuffed into vegetables. For a warm dish, it melts slightly when heated, making it a delicious addition to pasta sauces, scrambled eggs, or baked dishes. Its strong flavor means a little goes a long way, enhancing other ingredients without overpowering them. It pairs well with olives, tomatoes, and herbs.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike many other cheeses, feta is typically not aged for long periods. Its characteristic salty and tangy flavor comes from the brining process, which is a key differentiator from milder, creamier cheeses. The texture is also distinctively crumbly rather than smooth or elastic.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs appreciate feta for its unique flavor profile and culinary flexibility.
How to keep the rest
To keep leftover feta fresh, ensure it remains submerged in its brine or a light saltwater solution. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If it dries out, it can lose its characteristic moisture and become too hard to crumble easily.