Blue cheese feta: the surprising cure for boring salads and bland dishes

The world of cheese is vast and diverse, with countless varieties boasting unique flavors, textures, and origins. Among these culinary wonders, blue cheese and feta stand out as two distinct and beloved cheeses. But what happens when these two worlds collide? Is blue cheese feta a real thing, or merely a culinary mirage? Let’s delve into the fascinating realm of cheese to find out.

Blue Cheese vs. Feta: A Tale of Two Cheeses

Blue Cheese

Blue cheese, renowned for its distinctive blue-green veins, is crafted from cow’s, goat’s, or sheep’s milk. It owes its characteristic flavor and appearance to the introduction of bacteria or mold cultures, such as Penicillium roqueforti or Penicillium glaucum, during the cheesemaking process. These cultures create the characteristic blue veins and contribute to the cheese’s sharp, salty, and slightly bitter taste.

Feta

Feta, on the other hand, is a brined white cheese originating from Greece. Traditionally made from sheep’s milk or a blend of sheep’s and goat’s milk, feta is characterized by its crumbly texture, tangy flavor, and slightly salty taste. The brining process, in which feta is submerged in a saltwater solution, gives it its distinctive tang and helps preserve it.

Is Blue Cheese Feta?

The answer is both yes and no. While there is no traditional cheese that is both blue cheese and feta, some cheesemakers have experimented with creating hybrid cheeses that combine the characteristics of both. These cheeses may be labeled as “blue feta” or “feta blue” and typically feature a crumbly feta-like texture with blue-green veins running throughout.

Understanding Blue Feta

Blue feta is a relatively new creation in the cheese world. It is made using a similar process to traditional feta, but with the addition of blue cheese cultures. This results in a cheese that has the crumbly texture and tangy flavor of feta, with the added complexity and sharpness of blue cheese.

Tasting Blue Feta

Blue feta offers a unique and complex flavor profile. It combines the tangy, salty notes of feta with the sharp, slightly bitter taste of blue cheese. The blue veins provide a subtle yet noticeable hint of earthy flavor that adds depth and character.

Using Blue Feta

Blue feta is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of culinary applications. It can be crumbled over salads, added to pasta dishes, or used as a topping for pizzas. Its unique flavor also makes it a great addition to sandwiches, wraps, and dips.

Pairing Blue Feta

Blue feta pairs well with a variety of flavors and ingredients. Its tangy, salty taste complements sweet and fruity notes, making it a great match for fruits such as pears, apples, and grapes. It also goes well with nuts, honey, and balsamic vinegar.

Recommendations: Unveiling the Mystery

So, is blue cheese feta a real thing? The answer is a resounding yes. While it may not be a traditional cheese, blue feta is a delicious and innovative creation that combines the best of both blue cheese and feta. Its unique flavor and versatility make it a welcome addition to any cheese lover’s repertoire.

What You Need to Know

Q: What is the difference between blue cheese and feta?

A: Blue cheese is characterized by its blue-green veins and sharp, salty flavor, while feta is a crumbly white cheese with a tangy and slightly salty taste.

Q: How is blue feta made?

A: Blue feta is made using a similar process to traditional feta, but with the addition of blue cheese cultures.

Q: What does blue feta taste like?

A: Blue feta combines the tangy, salty notes of feta with the sharp, slightly bitter taste of blue cheese.

Q: How can I use blue feta?

A: Blue feta can be used in a variety of culinary applications, such as salads, pasta dishes, pizzas, sandwiches, wraps, and dips.

Q: What flavors pair well with blue feta?

A: Blue feta pairs well with sweet and fruity notes, such as fruits, nuts, honey, and balsamic vinegar.