If you are a fan of cheese, then you must know that Parmesan is one of the most popular varieties out there. But have you ever wondered what Greek cheese is like Parmesan? In this article, we will explore some of the best Greek cheeses that are similar to Parmesan in flavor and texture.

What Makes Parmesan So Special?

Parmesan is a hard and granular cheese that originated in Italy. It is made from cow’s milk and aged for at least 12 months.

The aging process gives it a unique nutty and salty flavor with a grainy texture. It is commonly used in Italian cuisine, especially in pasta dishes, soups, and salads.

Greek Cheese That Resembles Parmesan

1. Kefalotyri

Kefalotyri is a hard cheese made from sheep’s milk or a combination of sheep’s and goat’s milk. It has a pale yellow color with a firm texture similar to Parmesan.

The cheese has a sharp, salty taste that intensifies as it ages. Kefalotyri is commonly used in Greek cuisine as a grating cheese, especially in dishes like spanakopita (spinach pie) or pastitsio (Greek-style lasagna).

2. Kasseri

Kasseri is another hard cheese made from sheep’s milk or goat’s milk or both. It has a pale yellow color with small holes throughout the cheese and can be grated like Parmesan.

Kasseri has a mild buttery flavor with hints of saltiness that become more pronounced as it ages. This cheese is often used in Greek dishes like saganaki (fried cheese) or grilled sandwiches.

3. Graviera

Graviera is a semi-hard yellow cheese made from sheep’s milk or goat’s milk or both. It has a sweet and nutty flavor with a slightly grainy texture, similar to Parmesan. Graviera is often used in Greek cuisine as a table cheese, but it can also be grated and used in dishes like moussaka (a layered eggplant dish) or tyropita (cheese pie).

Conclusion

Greek cheese may not be as famous as Parmesan, but it certainly has a lot to offer in terms of flavor and texture. Kefalotyri, Kasseri, and Graviera are just a few examples of Greek cheeses that resemble Parmesan in some way. They are all versatile cheeses that can be used in various dishes or simply enjoyed on their own.

So next time you’re looking for a hard cheese to grate over your pasta or salad, try one of these Greek options instead of the usual Parmesan. You might just discover a new favorite cheese!