Feta Cheese

Feta Cheese is a brined, white cheese with a soft and creamy texture. It is traditionally made in Greece from sheep's or goat's milk. It is available year-round and is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly Greek dishes. Feta cheese is used in salads, pastries, and as a garnish for meat and vegetable dishes. It has a tangy, salty flavor that adds a unique touch to any dish.

Feta Cheese Synonyms

Greek Feta
Brined Cheese

Feta Cheese Substitutes

Goat Cheese

Different Forms/Types of Feta Cheese

Block

Feta cheese is often sold in blocks, submerged in brine to maintain its freshness and unique flavor.

Cubed

Some brands offer feta cheese in cubed form, which is ideal for skewers or for adding to salads.

Jarred

Feta cheese can also be found jarred in oil or brine, often with added herbs or spices for extra flavor.

Crumbled

Feta cheese is also available in a pre-crumbled form, which is convenient for sprinkling over salads, pastas, and other dishes.

How to Choose Feta Cheese

When purchasing feta cheese, look for cheese that is white, with a crumbly texture and no signs of dryness. It should have a tangy, salty flavor and should be stored in brine if it's in block form. Avoid feta cheese that has a sour smell or shows any signs of mold. For jarred feta, ensure the jar is sealed properly and the cheese is fully submerged in the oil or brine.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Feta Cheese

Feta cheese is a briny, tangy cheese that can add a punch of flavor to your dishes. It's important to remember that feta is a very salty cheese, so adjust the salt content of your dish accordingly. Feta can be used both in cooked and raw dishes, but it doesn't melt the same way other cheeses do, so it's often crumbled or cubed rather than shredded. If you're using feta in a hot dish, add it towards the end of the cooking process to prevent it from becoming too soft or losing its shape. Also, feta stored in brine can last longer and will retain its texture and flavor better than feta stored dry.

Shelf Life of Feta Cheese

Feta cheese should be stored in the refrigerator. If it's in block form, it should be kept in the brine it came in to maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out. Once opened, it should be used within a week. Jarred feta cheese should also be refrigerated after opening, with the cheese kept submerged in the oil or brine. It can last for several weeks if stored properly. Crumbled feta cheese should be used within a few days of opening for best quality.

Recommended Brands for Feta Cheese

block feta: Dodoni

cubed feta: President

jarred feta: Mt Vikos

crumbled feta: Athenos

Cooking Techniques for Feta Cheese

Baking: Feta can be baked to create a warm, slightly softened cheese that's perfect for spreading on bread or crackers. Simply place a block of feta in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil and your choice of herbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.

Grilling: Feta can be grilled to create a warm, slightly charred cheese that's perfect for salads or as a topping for grilled vegetables. Simply slice the feta, brush with olive oil, and grill over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.

Marinating: Feta can be marinated in olive oil, herbs, and spices to enhance its flavor. This is a great way to prepare feta for salads or antipasto platters. Simply cube or crumble the feta, cover with olive oil, and add your choice of herbs and spices. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least a few hours before using.