What To Know
- The most traditional and effective way to store opened feta cheese is to submerge it in its own brine.
- Place the feta in a clean glass jar or container, and pour the brine over it, ensuring the cheese is fully submerged.
- Opened feta cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks if submerged in brine or up to 5 days if wrapped in plastic wrap.
Feta cheese, with its distinct tangy and crumbly texture, is a staple ingredient in many Mediterranean dishes. However, once opened, this beloved cheese requires proper care to maintain its freshness and prevent spoilage. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the effective methods for preserving feta cheese once opened, ensuring you enjoy its delectable flavor for days to come.
Storage Methods
1. Submerge in Brine
The most traditional and effective way to store opened feta cheese is to submerge it in its own brine. Brine is a salt solution that helps preserve the cheese and maintain its moisture level. To create a brine solution, dissolve 1 tablespoon of salt in 2 cups of cold water. Place the feta in a clean glass jar or container, and pour the brine over it, ensuring the cheese is fully submerged. Cover the container tightly and refrigerate.
2. Wrap in Plastic Wrap
If you don’t have access to brine, you can wrap the feta cheese tightly in plastic wrap. Ensure that the cheese is completely covered and there are no air pockets. Place the wrapped cheese in a sealed container or bag and refrigerate. This method is less effective than using brine but can still extend the shelf life of the cheese for a few days.
3. Vacuum Seal
Vacuum sealing is an excellent option for long-term storage of feta cheese. Vacuum sealing removes all the air from the packaging, creating an airtight environment that prevents spoilage and moisture loss. Place the feta cheese in a vacuum-sealable bag, vacuum seal it, and freeze it. Vacuum-sealed feta cheese can last for several months in the freezer.
Other Tips
1. Use Clean Utensils
Always use clean utensils when handling opened feta cheese. Dirty utensils can introduce bacteria that can accelerate spoilage.
2. Keep Cheese Covered
Whether stored in brine or wrapped in plastic wrap, ensure the feta cheese is always covered. Exposure to air can cause the cheese to dry out and lose its flavor.
3. Avoid Freezing Unopened Feta
Freezing unopened feta cheese can damage its texture and flavor. Freeze only opened feta that has been properly stored.
4. Check for Spoilage
Before consuming opened feta cheese, check for signs of spoilage such as mold, discoloration, or an off odor. Discard any cheese that shows signs of spoilage.
Shelf Life
The shelf life of opened feta cheese depends on the storage method used:
- Submerged in brine: Up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator
- Wrapped in plastic wrap: Up to 5 days in the refrigerator
- Vacuum sealed and frozen: Up to 2 months in the freezer
Enjoying Feta Cheese
Once you’ve successfully preserved your opened feta cheese, you can enjoy it in a variety of dishes. Feta is a versatile ingredient that can be used in salads, sandwiches, pizzas, and dips. Its tangy flavor and crumbly texture add a distinctive touch to any meal.
Questions You May Have
1. How can I tell if my feta cheese has gone bad?
Check for mold, discoloration, or an off odor. Feta cheese that has gone bad may also have a slimy or sticky texture.
2. Can I freeze feta cheese?
Yes, you can freeze feta cheese. However, freeze only opened feta that has been properly stored. Vacuum sealing is recommended for freezing feta cheese.
3. How long can I keep feta cheese in the refrigerator?
Opened feta cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks if submerged in brine or up to 5 days if wrapped in plastic wrap.
