What To Know
- The cheese is often infused with mint, a practice that started during the Ottoman Empire, in order to give the cheese a pleasant smell and to protect it from spoilage.
- In fatayer, feta is typically mixed with other ingredients, such as spinach, onions, and tomatoes, to create a savory filling that is then wrapped in a dough parcel and baked.
- Overall, feta is a great choice for fatayer because it adds a unique flavor and texture that is not only delicious, but also complements the other ingredients in the filling.
Cheese is one of the most important components of a Mediterranean diet, and it’s an essential ingredient in many dishes. It’s used in everything from a light snack to a hearty meal, and it can be enjoyed by itself or with a side of bread. There are many different types of cheeses, and each one has its own unique flavor and texture.
1. Mozzarella
My favorite cheese to use when making fatayer is mozzarella. I like to use the fresh kind in the ball that you can find in the deli section of most supermarkets. Fresh mozzarella has an amazing creamy texture that pairs well with most any pizza toppings you can think of. It is also a good source of protein. You can also use low-moisture mozzarella in your fatayer, but the flavor and texture will be different. The low moisture kind has a more rubbery texture and does not melt as well as fresh mozzarella. It also has a more mild flavor. If you are looking for a more mild flavor and a cheese that will help your fatayer hold its shape better, then low moisture mozzarella may be a good choice for you.
2. Provolone
Cheese is the most important ingredient in Fatayer, apart from the dough itself. The most traditional cheese to use is akkawi, a semi-hard Palestinian cheese. The cheese is often infused with mint, a practice that started during the Ottoman Empire, in order to give the cheese a pleasant smell and to protect it from spoilage. When akkawi is not available, provolone is a common substitute, but akkawi is highly recommended. If you have a Middle Eastern market nearby, you should be able to find akkawi; otherwise, look for halloumi or kasseri. If you are using a cheese with a higher melting point, such as kasseri, you may need to grate it.
3. Feta
Feta is a type of cheese that is made from sheep’s or goat’s milk, or a blend of the two. It is a fresh cheese, meaning that it is not aged or fermented like other types of cheeses. Feta has a crumbly and salty texture and can range in color from white to light brown. This cheese is a popular ingredient in many Greek and Middle Eastern dishes, including fatayer.
In fatayer, feta is typically mixed with other ingredients, such as spinach, onions, and tomatoes, to create a savory filling that is then wrapped in a dough parcel and baked. The combination of the feta’s saltiness and the other ingredients’ flavors creates a rich and flavorful filling that is perfect for this type of dish.
Overall, feta is a great choice for fatayer because it adds a unique flavor and texture that is not only delicious, but also complements the other ingredients in the filling.
4. Goat cheese
Goat cheese, also known as chèvre, is a type of cheese made from goat’s milk. It is a soft cheese with a creamy texture and a tangy flavor. Goat cheese is often used in a variety of dishes, including salads, pastas, and, of course, fatayers. In fact, it is a key ingredient in the traditional Greek dish, spanakopita, which is a savory pie made with spinach, feta cheese, and phyllo dough.
If you are interested in trying goat cheese, you may be wondering what the best kind is to use. There are many different types of goat cheese, and the best one for fatayers is a soft, unripened cheese. This type of cheese is known as chèvre frais, and it has a smooth, creamy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. It is also the most common type of goat cheese used in cooking.
5. FreshRicotta
Fresh ricotta is a fresh cheese, therefore it has a short shelf life and should be consumed within a few days of purchase. Its texture is similar to that of cottage cheese, but it is not as firm. It also has a light, milky flavor that is slightly sweet. Due to its freshness, it is best enjoyed uncooked, as it can spoil if heated.
If you’re looking for a cheese that will add a creamy, savory element to your fatayer, fresh ricotta is a perfect choice. Its soft texture and mild flavor will blend seamlessly into the other ingredients, while its richness will add a touch of luxury to the dish.
Wrap-Up
You won’t go wrong with any of these cheeses for your fatayer, but there are a few particulars to consider. If you want a more timid cheese flavor, fresh ricotta is the way to go. If you want a more distinct cheese flavor that still goes well with a variety of fillings, feta is a good choice. For a heartier, more filling cheese, opt for mozzarella or provolone. And if you want a cheese that brings its own unique, tangy flavor to the table, go with goat cheese.
