Ji Eun Kim
Feta means slice in Greek. Therefore, feta cheese is a Greek cheese that is made4 from a sheep’s milk. Also, it is sometimes derived from a mixture of a goat’s milk and a sheep’s milk. Then, the cheese is cured by treating it through the brine. The process of treatment takes several months before it is ready for consumption.
Brine gives feta cheese a distinct smell, saltiness, and tanginess. This makes feta cheese not to be preferable for many people. For those who aren’t ready to try out feta cheese, here are alternatives for you.
1. Ricotta
This is an Italian cheese that is made for pasta, salads, and anything that invites the use of feta cheese. It is, therefore, one of the most popular and used cheese brands to substitute feta. Additionally, you can get ricotta in forms of cream, or Salata. Of course, the difference between these two is age. It is less salty and less tangy and without odor, making it perfect for your recipes.
2. Cottage cheese
Cottage cheese has a very different taste from that of feta cheese. However, it can be used for any recipe that feta is applied. Usually, it is applied while grated; and you can get this ready-made from your commercial dealer. To give it the cheese taste, you can add some salt since it is not as salty as feta.
3. Cotija
This is a Mexican cheese made from a cow’s milk. It is slightly different from feta cheese in terms of the salt content, taste, and tanginess. However, it has a feeling of the parmesan cheese. This makes it viable to be used as an alternative to both cases.
4. Halloumi
This cheese is more or less similar to feta cheese. In that, it originates from Greece; it is made from a sheep’s milk or a mixture with a goat’s milk. Halloumi has a considerably higher melting point. Therefore, it can be fried without melting.
5. Tofu
Tofu is suitable for vegans.so, if you are restricted by diet from using dairy products, then tofu’s got your back. It has a taste and smells almost similar to feta cheese, and the crumbling experience is virtually as mightier. To get the taste accurately, you might need to soak it in salty water.
6. Mizithra
This, as well, is similar to feta in terms of how it is made. Also, it originates from Greece. The difference is that this one does not undergo similar treatment. This means that the smell and taste might be close, but it is not salty.
7. Queso Fresco
Originally, this type of cheese was made in Mexico. However, due to concerns about its safety, the preparation procedure was adopted in the US, and they made it cleaner. It, however, may not be that popular, but it can be used in place of feat cheese.
Summary Table
| Item | Calories (per 100g) | Total Fats (g) | Carbohydrates (g) | Proteins (g) | Source | Works Best In |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ricotta | 174 | 10.1 | 5.3 | 14.5 | Dairy product from whey | Pasta, desserts, dips |
| Cottage Cheese | 98 | 4.3 | 3.4 | 11.1 | Fresh curd cheese | Snacks, salads, cooking |
| Cotija | 452 | 37.2 | 4.1 | 25.2 | Hispanic-style cheese | Grating, salads, Mexican dishes |
| Halloumi | 316 | 26.8 | 1.8 | 19.2 | Cypriot cheese | Grilling, frying, salads |
| Tofu | 76 | 4.8 | 1.9 | 8.1 | Soybean curd | Stir-fries, scrambles, smoothies |
| Mizithra | 316 | 26.8 | 1.8 | 19.2 | Greek cheese | Grating, salads, Mediterranean dishes |
| Queso Fresco | 310 | 25 | 1 | 20 | Hispanic-style cheese | Salads, tacos, Mexican dishes |
FAQs
Can you replace mozzarella with feta?
While mozzarella and feta have different textures and flavors, you can use feta as a substitute for mozzarella in some dishes. However, remember that feta has a tangy and crumbly texture, which might not melt like mozzarella. It’s best suited for salads, Mediterranean dishes, or recipes where the unique flavor of feta complements the dish.
What is a substitute for goat feta cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute for goat feta cheese, you can use regular cow’s milk feta cheese. The flavor and texture might differ slightly, but it can work well as a replacement.
What cheese is better than feta?
The choice of cheese depends on the dish and your preferences. If you’re looking for a cheese similar to feta, but with a milder flavor, you might consider ricotta salata or queso fresco. Mozzarella or provolone could be good alternatives if you want a cheese that melts well.
The bottom line
Now you have the green light of using any option in the highlight to make your preferred dish. You can have more options, such as Goat cheese and Roquefort.
