Manouri
A soft, lightly sweet Greek cheese made by adding cream to whey. Part of the ricotta family; used fresh and in desserts.
What Is Manouri?
Manouri is one of Greece’s soft, semi-fresh cheeses. It is made by adding milk and cream to the whey left from making cheeses such as feta; for this reason, it is considered part of the curd-cheese and ricotta family.
It has a white, creamy texture and a mildly sweet flavor, with very little salt. It is sold in cylindrical forms and used both in savory dishes and as a dessert with honey and fruit.
Manouri Nutrition Facts
Like fresh cheeses enriched with cream, Manouri provides about 270 kcal of energy per 100 g and contains a moderate amount of protein and a high amount of fat; it is a source of calcium. The values are approximate and based on a similar cheese profile.
What Are the Benefits of Manouri?
With its protein and calcium content, Manouri can be eaten in moderation as part of a balanced diet; because it is high in fat, portion size should be watched.
This is general information; Manouri is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment.
How to Choose Manouri
Fresh Manouri should be white, creamy, and have a milky aroma. Yellowed, soured, or watery pieces have lost their freshness.
- The color should be white, and the texture creamy.
- The aroma should be fresh and milky, not sour.
- Yellowing and excessive liquid are signs of staleness.
How to Store Manouri
Because Manouri is a fresh cheese, store it in a covered container in the refrigerator for 5–7 days and consume it promptly. Keep it separate from strong-smelling foods to preserve its flavor.
How to Use Manouri in Cooking
Manouri is served fresh in salads, appetizers, and vegetable platters; it is also lightly grilled and served as a dessert with honey and walnuts. Its mildly sweet, almost unsalted character makes it suitable for both savory and sweet recipes.
Can Manouri Be Grilled?
Yes. It can be cut into thick slices and grilled briefly. The edges brown while the inside stays soft; drizzle honey over it before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Manouri the same as curd cheese?
They are part of the same family and are made by similar methods; because Manouri is enriched with cream, it is fattier and has a denser, creamier texture than curd cheese.
Is Manouri salty?
No. It is only mildly salty compared with cheeses such as feta, which also makes it suitable for sweet preparations.
What is Manouri served with?
It pairs well with honey, walnuts, fresh and dried fruit, and vegetables in salads and appetizer platters.