Feta cheese is a delicious and versatile ingredient that adds a tangy and salty flavor to various dishes. Whether you use it in salads, sandwiches, or as a topping for pizza, it’s important to properly store feta cheese in the refrigerator to ensure its freshness and taste. In this article, we will discuss the steps and tips to store feta cheese correctly, so you can enjoy its creamy texture and distinctive flavor for an extended period of time.
Understanding Feta Cheese
What is Feta Cheese?
Feta cheese is a traditional Greek cheese made from either sheep’s milk or a combination of sheep’s and goat’s milk. It is a brined cheese, giving it a crumbly texture and a sharp flavor. Feta cheese is commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine and has gained popularity worldwide due to its unique taste and versatility.
Why Proper Storage is Important?
Properly storing feta cheese is crucial to maintain its quality and prevent it from spoiling. When feta cheese is exposed to excessive moisture or improper temperatures, it can develop mold or become soggy, affecting its taste and texture. Proper storage techniques help to preserve its freshness and prolong its shelf life.
Steps to Properly Store Feta Cheese
Step 1: Check the Expiry Date
Before storing feta cheese, it is essential to check the expiry date. Buying fresh feta cheese with a longer expiry date ensures that it will stay good for an extended period. Avoid purchasing feta cheese that is close to its expiration date to maximize its shelf life.
Step 2: Keep it in Its Original Packaging
Feta cheese is typically sold in brine or vacuum-sealed packaging. It is recommended to leave the cheese in its original packaging until it is ready to be used. The packaging is designed to retain the cheese’s moisture and prevent it from drying out prematurely.
Step 3: Store in the Coldest Part of the Refrigerator
Locate the coldest part of your refrigerator, which is usually the back or bottom shelf. Feta cheese should be stored at a temperature between 32°F (0°C) and 40°F (4°C). It is important to maintain a consistent temperature to ensure optimum freshness. Avoid storing feta cheese in the refrigerator door as it is subject to temperature fluctuations due to frequent opening and closing.
Step 4: Keep it Sealed
If the original packaging of the feta cheese is not resealable, transfer it to an airtight container to prevent air exposure. Extended exposure to air can lead to the cheese drying out and losing its flavor. Ensure the container is clean and dry before transferring the cheese.
Step 5: Store Away from Strong Odors
Feta cheese has a porous texture, making it susceptible to absorbing strong odors. To preserve its authentic taste, store feta cheese away from strong-smelling foods such as onions, garlic, or fish. This will prevent the cheese from acquiring unwanted flavors and aromas.
Additional Tips for Proper Feta Cheese Storage
Use Maintaining Brine
If you purchased feta cheese in brine, it is recommended to keep the cheese submerged in the brine. The brine helps to maintain the cheese’s moisture and prevent it from drying out. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to avoid any leakage.
Change Brine Regularly
If you decide to store feta cheese in brine, it is essential to change the brine every few days. This practice helps to maintain the freshness and quality of the cheese. Drain the existing brine, rinse the container, and prepare a fresh brine solution to submerge the cheese back into.
Wrap in Wax Paper
Alternatively, you can wrap feta cheese with wax paper or parchment paper before storing it in the refrigerator. This method helps to maintain the cheese’s moisture and protects it from drying out. Make sure the paper is tightly wrapped to prevent air exposure.
Consume the Cheese Before the Expiration Date
While feta cheese can last beyond its expiry date if stored properly, it is still recommended to consume it before the indicated date. The cheese’s quality and taste may diminish over time, so it’s best to enjoy it while it’s at its freshest.
Freezing Feta Cheese
If you have an excessive amount of feta cheese that you are unable to consume before it spoils, freezing it is an option. To freeze feta cheese, cut it into smaller portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped cheese in a freezer bag or container and label it with the date. Frozen feta cheese can last up to three months, but its texture may slightly change upon thawing.
Conclusion
Properly storing feta cheese in the refrigerator is essential to maintain its freshness and flavor. By following these storage guidelines, you can enjoy feta cheese for longer periods without compromising its quality. Remember to check the expiry date, keep it in its original packaging or transfer it to an airtight container, store it in the coldest part of the refrigerator, and away from strong odors. Whether you decide to store it in brine or wrap it in wax paper, these simple steps will help you enjoy the delightful taste of feta cheese in your favorite dishes.