Yes, goat cheese is a healthy option. It is easily digestible and can be consumed by those who are intolerant to cow cheese. It is rich in healthy fats, proteins, calcium and contains essential vitamins
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT CHEESE: FETA vs. CHÈVRE - A CHEESY TUG-OF-WAR
Standing on a dairy section aisle, and wondering which creamy white cheese to choose- should it be Feta or Chèvre? The similar look of both these cheeses is often confusing even for seasoned lovers of cheese. Each of these types of cheese is unique in their taste, texture and flavors, setting them apart from each other. In order to know which cheese to use in a salad and which is to be used in a dessert, it is important that we know the difference between Feta and Chèvre. Both these cheeses have a different chemical composition making them different from each other. Let’s dive into the dissimilarities of Feta and Chèvre to know more about them!
What is Feta Cheese?
The origin of Feta dates back to more than 2000 years, unlike most food items. It was mentioned in the famous ancient Greek poet Homer’s famous book Odyssey. Feta is made traditionally from sheep’s milk or a blend of sheep’s and goat’s milk (with up to 30% of the latter). Greece has the GI tag for the production of Feta and is protected under the PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) guidelines of the European Union. This means that authentic Feta must come from specific regions in Greece only.
Feta cheese is a nutritious addition to the diet, as it has fewer calories than cheeses like Parmesan, Gouda, or cheddar because it contains more water than most other cheeses. Thus this is a healthy cheese alternative. It contains high levels of calcium and B vitamins, as well as probiotics, which support digestive health along with high levels of salt and lactose.
The flavor of Greek cheese is tangy and slightly salty, rich in a complex taste that intensifies as it ages. Its creamy but crumbly texture makes it perfect for crumbling over dishes. The flavor and texture of feta cheese can be owed to its production process. It is prepared by curdling milk with rennet and aged in brine, which gives it its unique feta characteristics. It is popularly crumbled over salads, incorporated in pastries and used in baked or grilled food. It can be paired with salads, grains, fruits, herbs and spices.
What is Chèvre Cheese?
The French word for goat is Chèvre, and is used synonymously with goat cheese. Goat cheese originates in France and has been crafted for centuries and is a benchmark of French cheese making. While it is available globally, artisanal Chèvre is the pride of France. It is exclusively made of goat milk.
Chèvre has a mild, creamy, and slightly tangy flavor when young. As it ages, it develops earthier and more pronounced flavors. The texture is soft and spreadable when fresh, but firmer and drier as it matures. The process of production is the curdling of goat’s milk with natural acids or rennet, Chèvre can be fresh or aged, with a variety of coatings or mold rinds. Moreover, it is a nutritious supplement to any diet because it includes protein, good fats, calcium, phosphorus, iron, riboflavin (vitamin B2), and vitamin A
The adaptability of Chèvre makes it a kitchen favorite worldwide. It can be used in spreads, baking of tarts, quiches and stuffed vegetables and otherwise paired with fruits, honey or nuts on a cheese board.
Key Differences between Feta & Chèvre
As both Feta and Chèvre are similar in colour and texture, sometimes it is confusing to pick the right one. Both these beloved cheeses have distinct characteristics that differentiate them from each other substantially.
Feta Cheese
- Feta is traditionally made of sheep or a blend of goat and sheep’s milk. This influences the flavor profile of the cheese.
- The sodium content in Feta is higher due to the brining process it undergoes. In this process, the cheese is soaked in a watery solution of kosher salt, after the removal of the whey from cheese. This process aids in the storage of the cheese.
Chèvre or Goat Cheese
- The crafting of Chèvre is exclusively from Goat milk.
- Chèvre is higher in fat content and easily digestible.
These are the key differences that make the usage of these cheeses unique and render a delightful culinary experience by elevating the dishes.
How to choose the right cheese
Variants of Junnu are also available, similar to flavored Kharvas- one with coconut powder, nuts and raisins, etc. Wow! What an innovation. In South India, variants of Junnu are prepared with different ingredients along with the common base of Bovine Colostrum and Sweetener along with the addition of normal milk and black pepper. It is really fascinating to observe the versatility of traditional Indian colostrum pudding in its preparation and consumption. This is a special treat often sourced during festivities when friends and families meet. Ginnu is another sibling to Kharvas and Junnu, consumed in Karnataka.
Although both cheeses are unique in their own flavors, the choosing of cheese depends on:
Table: Pairing of cheese
| Attribute | Sheep cheese | Goat Cheese |
|---|---|---|
| Pairing with Fruits | Watermelon, figs | Apples, berries, pears |
| Application in Salad | Salads of Mediterranean-style | Salads with roasted veggies and mixed greens |
| Pairing with Wine | Light red or Dry white wines | Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc |
| Cooking Techniques | In Grills and Baking | Blending in as sauces and as spreads |
| Texture | Crumbly and firm | Soft and creamy |
Personal Taste Preferences
Goat cheese is mild and creamy but Feta is bolder and salty in its flavors. So according to one’s palate preference cheese can be chosen.
Health & Dietary Considerations
Studies have documented that the individuals who are lactose intolerant can choose goat cheese as it is also easily digestible. Feta, while higher in sodium, offers a robust flavor in smaller amounts, making it a lower-calorie option for those watching portion sizes.
Cooking Purpose
Feta can be used to prepare Mediterranean-inspired dishes (thanks to its Greek origin), crumbled over salads and in savory bakes. However, Chèvre can be opted for desserts, spreads and pairing with fruits or honey.
Cost as a factor
Although Feta cheese is commonly available in the markets and is more affordable than goat cheese, artisanal Chèvre cheese has been launched in the markets as well at a reasonable price.
Relevance of Goat Cheese in India
India is the largest producer of goat milk in the world but due to the lack of awareness in the country the demand for this milk and its products is low. However, with the rise in the knowledge of people and the advent of culinary experimentation, Chèvre has started gaining importance. Upcoming bistros and artisanal cheese bars have increased the popularity of goat cheese in particular as they use goat cheese in their dishes (Goat cheese tarts, oak ash chevre salad, etc.).
Star chef and Padma Shree awardee Sanjeev Kapoor showcased the Recipe of Goat Cheese Fritters in his cooking show. Other innovative recipes using Chèvre are loaded all over the internet that can inspire cheese lovers to use this cheese in their culinary innovations.
Final Thoughts
With each offering distinctive flavors, textures, and culinary applications, both Feta and Chèvre are adaptable and palatable. Feta has a significantly briny but bold taste that is perfect for savoury dishes, while Goat cheese has a profile that is tangy and creamier, making it impeccable for spreads and pairings. For the cheese fans, each of these varieties bring culinary experience that is a class apart. The key differences lie in the raw material, that is, Feta is made of Sheep or Sheep- Goat milk whereas Chèvre is an art of goat milk only. This leads to the difference in their flavour and texture, providing experimental opportunities for various culinary innovations.
Next time you’re in the cheese aisle, why not try both? Experiment with recipes and discover your personal favorite. From a delectable Cheese tart to a Mediterranean Greek Salad the culinary creations can be elevated with these cheeses. After all, the best cheese is the one that delights your taste buds!
Embrace the flavors and textures, discover your best choice of cheese!
Frequently Asked Questions about Colostrum
Is goat cheese really good for you?
Is chèvre the same as feta?
No, Chèvre and Feta are not the same. Chèvre is made exclusively of goat milk, whereas Feta is made out of sheep’s milk or a blend of sheep-goat milk.
Which is better, feta or goat cheese?
There is no comparison like which is better. The choice depends on the culinary requirements and preference of taste.
Is goat cheese the healthiest cheese?
Goat cheese is a healthy option. It is easily digestible and contains less inflammatory properties as compared to cow cheese.
What is the easiest cheese to digest?
Chèvre is easier to digest because it contains smaller fat globules.