How to Freeze Feta Cheese

In our household, feta cheese is a staple. From salads and sandwiches to baked dishes, it brings that tangy punch we all love. But, what do you do when you’ve got more feta than you can eat before it goes bad? The answer, my friends, is as cool as a cucumber: freeze it!

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Freeze cheese? Really?” Absolutely! And not just any cheese – we’re talking about feta, the crumbly, flavorful delight that hails from Greece. Freezing feta may sound like a culinary no-no, but with the right techniques, you’ll be savoring its deliciousness for months to come.

Let’s dive in and chill out with some food safety tips that will have you freezing feta like a pro.

Understanding Feta

Before we start packing the freezer, let’s take a moment to understand feta cheese. Feta is traditionally made from sheep’s milk or a mixture of sheep and goat’s milk. Its high moisture content gives it that signature creamy-yet-crumbly texture we all know and love. But that moisture can also be a double-edged sword when it comes to freezing.

Freezing Feta: Step by Step

Alright, team, it’s game time. Here’s your step-by-step playbook on how to freeze feta cheese safely:

1. Prep Your Feta: Start by draining your feta. If it’s packed in brine, give it a gentle rinse under cold water and pat it dry with a paper towel.
2. Portion Control: Think about how you’ll use your feta in the future. It’s best to freeze it in usable portions, so you don’t have to defrost more than you need at one time.
3. Wrap It Up: Wrap your feta portions tightly in plastic wrap. Make sure there’s no air trapped with the cheese as this can lead to freezer burn.
4. Seal the Deal: For extra protection, place your wrapped feta into a heavy-duty freezer bag or an airtight container. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.
5. Label and Lay Flat: Use a marker to label the bag or container with the date. This will help you keep track of how long it’s been in the freezer. Lay the bag or container flat in the coldest part of your freezer, usually at the back.

Thawing and Using Frozen Feta

When the time comes to defrost your feta, patience is key. Plan ahead and transfer the needed portion from the freezer to the fridge, allowing it to thaw slowly, usually overnight. This helps maintain texture and flavor. Once thawed, consume the feta within a few days for the best quality and safety.

What to Expect After Freezing

Let’s set realistic expectations. The texture of feta will change slightly after freezing and thawing. It tends to become a bit crumblier, but it’s still perfect for cooked dishes like casseroles, pizzas, and omelets where the change in texture is less noticeable.

Safety Concerns and Best Practices

The USDA recommends using frozen cheese within 6 months for best quality. And although freezing can protect against spoilage, it doesn’t kill bacteria. So always handle your feta with clean hands and utensils to prevent contamination before freezing.

According to the CDC, listeria is a bacteria that can grow at refrigerator temperatures and can be a concern with soft cheeses like feta. However, freezing effectively stops bacterial growth, making it a safe option to prolong the life of your cheese.

Key Takeaways

• Freezing Feta is Feasible: You can freeze feta cheese to extend its shelf life. Just be prepared for a slight change in texture upon thawing.
• Wrap and Protect: Properly wrapping and sealing your feta before freezing will help maintain its quality and prevent freezer burn.
• Slow and Steady Thaws: Always thaw your feta in the refrigerator to ensure it remains at a safe temperature throughout the process.
• Use It Up: Once thawed, use your feta within a few days, and only refreeze if it has been handled properly and kept at safe temperatures.
• Safety First: Remember that while freezing stops bacterial growth, it doesn’t eliminate bacteria, so always practice good hygiene when handling feta.