Preserving Feta Cheese: The Right Way to Store It After Opening

When it comes to feta cheese, keeping it fresh and flavorful after opening requires just a little bit of care. Proper storage can extend its lifespan significantly, ensuring that your feta remains a delightful addition to your culinary creations. In this article, we will explore an effective method to store feta cheese—the olive oil method—and discuss other important considerations for preserving this versatile and delicious cheese.

Why Proper Storage is Important

Proper storage of feta cheese is crucial for several reasons. First, it helps in maintaining the cheese's consistency and flavor. Feta is made from chopped curd and brined to preserve it. However, once the packaging is opened, the cheese is exposed to air, which can alter its texture and taste. Additionally, improper storage can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria, making the cheese unsafe to consume.

The Olive Oil Method: A Simple Yet Effective Storage Technique

To store feta cheese properly, there are few methods that work better than the olive oil technique. This method involves placing the cheese in a small, airtight bag, filling it with enough olive oil to cover the cheese, and then submerging the bag in a bowl of olive oil.

Step-by-Step Guide to Storing Feta Cheese in Olive Oil

Choose the Right Container: Start by selecting a small ziplock bag or vacuum-seal container that can hold the feta without overcrowding. Ensure the container is airtight to prevent air from entering and drawing out moisture from the cheese. Measure Olive Oil: Pour enough olive oil into the bag to cover the feta. The oil acts as a barrier, preventing air from reaching the cheese and slowing down the drying process. Remove Air: Squeeze out as much air as possible from the bag before sealing it tightly. This helps in maintaining the anaerobic environment that is crucial for preserving the cheese. Submerge in Oil: Place the sealed bag into a small bowl filled with enough olive oil to cover the top of the bag. This step is essential as it prevents the bag from drying out and ensures the cheese remains submerged in oil. Refrigerate: Store the bowl with the feta-filled bag in the refrigerator. This will help in maintaining the temperature and prolonging the cheese's freshness.

By following these steps, your feta cheese can be stored for up to one month with minimal loss of quality. Regularly check the oil level and add more as needed to ensure the cheese remains submersed.

Additional Tips for Storing Feta Cheese

While the olive oil method is excellent for preserving feta, there are other tips that can help in maintaining the cheese's freshness:

Use Clean Containers: Always use clean and sanitized containers to prevent contamination. Sterilizing your storage vessels will ensure that no unwanted bacteria are introduced. Monitor Temperature: Keep your feta in a cool, dark area, preferably in the refrigerator. Exposure to heat can cause the cheese to dry out and degrade more quickly. Check for Odors: If your cheese begins to develop an unpleasant odor, it is an indicator that it has gone bad and should be discarded. Look for Texture Changes: Most importantly, always inspect the texture of your feta. If it has become overly crumbly or moldy, it is no longer safe to consume.

By focusing on proper storage and monitoring, you can extend the shelf life of your feta cheese and continue to enjoy its unique taste and versatility in your cooking.

Conclusion

Properly storing feta cheese is a simple yet vital step in ensuring that you can enjoy this traditional cheese long after its packaging is opened. Whether you use the olive oil technique or other storage methods, the key is to maintain a moist and cool environment. By doing so, you can preserve the flavor, texture, and overall quality of your feta, making it a valuable addition to your kitchen pantry.