Georgian cheese

Georgian Cheese

Georgian cheese is a significant part of the cuisine of Georgia. The country, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, has a rich and diverse culinary tradition, with cheese playing a central role in many dishes.

History

The history of cheese making in Georgia dates back thousands of years. Archaeological evidence suggests that Georgians were among the first cultures in the world to produce cheese, with some estimates dating back to the 5th millennium BC.

Types of Georgian Cheese

There are more than 250 types of cheese made in Georgia, each with its own unique taste, texture, and production method. Some of the most popular types include:

• Sulguni: A semi-hard cheese from the Samegrelo region. It has a sour, moderately salty flavor, a dimpled texture, and an elastic consistency.

• Imeretian Cheese: Named after the Imereti region where it is made, this cheese is soft and has a slightly sour taste. It is the most popular cheese in Georgia and is often used in traditional dishes like khachapuri.

• Guda Cheese: This cheese is made in the mountainous regions of Georgia. It is aged in sheepskin sacks, which gives it a unique, slightly smoky flavor.

Production

The production of Georgian cheese varies by region and type. However, most Georgian cheeses are made using traditional methods. The milk (usually cow, sheep, or buffalo) is first heated and then fermented using a starter culture. The curd is then separated from the whey, shaped, and aged for varying lengths of time.

Culinary Uses

Georgian cheese is used in a variety of dishes. It is often served on its own, with bread, or as part of a cheese platter. It is also used in cooking, most notably in the national dish, khachapuri. This is a cheese-filled bread that is a staple of Georgian cuisine.

See Also

• Cuisine of Georgia
• Khachapuri
• Sulguni
• Imeretian Cheese
• Guda Cheese