All You Need to Know About Buying Feta Cheese
What is Feta Cheese?
Feta cheese is a type of cheese that originated in Greece and is made from sheep's milk or a combination of sheep and goat's milk. It is a crumbly, tangy cheese with a salty flavor that is often used in Greek cuisine.
How to Choose Feta Cheese
When choosing feta cheese, there are a few things to consider to ensure that you get the best quality cheese.
Consider the Country of Origin
Traditionally, feta cheese is made in Greece and is protected by a "Protected Designation of Origin" (PDO) status, which means that only feta cheese made in specific regions of Greece can be called "feta." This ensures that the cheese is made using traditional methods and high-quality ingredients.
Look for the PDO Label
To ensure that you are getting authentic Greek feta cheese, look for the PDO label on the packaging. This label guarantees that the cheese was made in Greece using traditional methods and high-quality ingredients.
Consider the Texture and Flavor
Feta cheese should have a crumbly, slightly grainy texture and a tangy, salty flavor. Avoid feta cheese that is too soft or has an overly strong, pungent flavor, as this may indicate that the cheese is not fresh or has been made with lower-quality ingredients.
How to Store Feta Cheese
Once you have chosen your feta cheese, it is important to store it properly to maintain its quality and flavor. Feta cheese should be stored in the refrigerator, preferably in a container of brine or water to keep it from drying out. It is best to use the cheese within a week of opening the package, but it can be stored for up to a month if properly stored.
Conclusion
When choosing feta cheese, look for the PDO label to ensure that you are getting authentic, high-quality cheese from Greece. Consider the texture and flavor, and store the cheese properly to maintain its quality. With these tips, you can enjoy the tangy, salty flavor of feta cheese in all your favorite dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is feta cheese a healthy fat?
Feta cheese contains beneficial fatty acids, such as conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which may improve body composition by reducing body fat and increasing lean mass. However, it is important to consume feta cheese in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
2. Is feta or goat cheese healthier?
Overall, feta cheese is the healthier choice. It has fewer calories than goat cheese, making it preferable for weight-loss diets. However, if you have a heart condition, goat cheese may be a better option due to lower cholesterol and sodium levels compared to feta cheese.
3. How do you eat feta cheese?
Feta cheese can be enjoyed in various ways, such as topping it on potatoes, pizza, or in a sandwich. It can also be used in stuffing, salads, with fruits, or in phyllo turnovers. Additionally, feta cheese complements cooked vegetables, adding a tangy flavor to the dish.
4. Is feta cheese the healthiest cheese?
Feta cheese is considered healthy due to its high calcium and phosphorus content. It provides more calcium compared to many other cheeses, which supports healthy teeth and bones. The combination of phosphorus and calcium in feta cheese has been linked to improved bone density and prevention of osteoporosis.
Editor's Notes
During our feta cheese research, we found 24 feta cheese products and shortlisted 9 quality products. We collected and analyzed 7,253 customer reviews through our big data system to write the feta cheese list. We found that most customers choose feta cheese with an average price of $27.39.
The feta cheese are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of feta cheese, including Lifeway, Divina, Meredith Dairy, NERMULL, Karoun. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 162 consumers with an average rating of 4.6.
Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!
