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Kopanisti - Greek Cheese

by Nancy Gaifyllia
for About.com

Kopanisti Cheese (c) Jim Stanfield

Kopanisti

© Jim Stanfield
Kopanisti is a white or blue-white cheese that is produced without the use of machines. Made from full-fat sheep, goat, or cow milk (or a combination), salt and ground pepper are added before aging-curing, giving it a strong flavor. It is made only in the Cyclades Islands.

The Greek island of Mykonos is famous for its kopanisti, where it is often sold in terra cotta pots.

Greek name and pronounciation:

κοπανιστή, pronounced koh-pah-nee-STEE

At the market:

This soft blue-white cheese has a creamy texture and a strong peppery flavor, similar to Roquefort. It has no external rind or coating, and is produced with an irregular shape.

Composition

  • moisture: 60.4%
  • fat: 19.4%
  • protein: 16.7%,
  • salt: 3%

Using Kopanisti:

Kopanisti is a table cheese, an ingredient in filled pies (pitas), and a flavorful component of mezethes (hors d'oeuvres), a loyal companion to Ouzo.

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