| Israeli feta | |
| Country: | Israel |
| Region: | Countrywide |
| Source: | Sheep, Cow, Goat, or a combination thereof |
| Pasteurised: | yes |
| Texture: | Firm |
| Aging: | 3 months or more |
Israeli feta cheese or (he| גבינת ראש הנקרה|translit=Gvinat rosh hankara), also known as Israeli-style feta cheese or simply Israeli cheese, is a type of white cheese made from sheep's milk, cow's milk, or a combination of both. It is similar to Greek feta cheese, but has a milder flavor and a creamier texture. [1] [2]
Israeli feta cheese has a relatively short history, dating back only to the late 19th century when Jewish immigrants from Greece and the Balkans made aliyah and brought their cheese-making traditions to Israel. They adapted their recipes to suit local ingredients and tastes, giving rise to the Israeli-style feta cheese produced today. Feta cheese itself can be traced back to Ancient Greece. Israeli feta became popular among local Jewish and Arab communities.[3] [4]
Israeli feta cheese became a staple food in Israel, where it is commonly used in salads, sandwiches, and pastries. Its mild, creamy flavor and crumbly texture make it a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes.
Today, Israeli feta cheese is produced by Israeli dairy companies including Tnuva, Strauss, and Shamir Salads. The production process typically involves pasteurizing the milk, adding rennet and starter cultures, and letting the mixture curdle for several hours. The curds are then cut into small pieces and drained, forming the base of the cheese. The cheese is then salted and stored in a brine solution for several days or weeks to mature.
Israeli feta cheese can be made from 100% sheep's milk or a combination of sheep's and cow's milk, depending on the producer. Some Israeli feta cheeses are also made with goat's milk, which gives the cheese a slightly tangy flavor.
Israeli feta cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is commonly used in Israeli cuisine, where it is often crumbled over salads, mixed with vegetables, or used as a filling for pastries such as bourekas, ziva or börek.[5] [6]
Israeli feta cheese is also used in various international dishes, including pizza, sandwiches, and pasta. It can be melted or grilled and used as a topping for burgers, or sliced and added to sandwiches and wraps.
In addition, Israeli feta cheese can be used in desserts. It is often paired with sweet ingredients such as honey, fruit, or chocolate, and used in dishes such as cheesecake, tarts, or ice cream.
There are several varieties of Israeli feta cheese, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Some of the most popular varieties include:
It is sold at the grocery store chain Trader Joe's in the United States.[8]