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 over from making cheeses like feta, which is why it is considered part of the same family as curd cheese and ricotta.
It has a white, creamy and slightly sweet texture with very little salt. It is sold in a cylindrical shape and is used both in savory dishes and as a dessert with honey and fruit.
Nutritional Values of Manouri
Like cream-enriched fresh cheeses, manouri contains around 270 kcal of energy per 100 grams, with a moderate amount of protein and a high amount of fat; it is a source of calcium. Values are approximate, drawn from a similar cheese profile.
What Are the Benefits of Manouri?
With its protein and calcium content, manouri can be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet; since its fat ratio is high, portion control is recommended.
This information is general; manouri is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment.
How to Choose Manouri?
Fresh manouri should be white, creamy and have a fresh, milky smell. Samples that have yellowed, turned sour, or released water have lost their freshness.
- Color should be white, texture should be creamy
- Smell should be fresh-milky, not sour
- Yellowing and excess water are signs of staleness
How to Store Manouri?
Since manouri is a fresh cheese, it is stored in a closed container in the refrigerator for 5–7 days and should be consumed quickly. Keeping it away from strong-smelling foods preserves its taste.
Using Manouri in the Kitchen
Manouri is used fresh in salads, meze and vegetable plates; it is also lightly grilled and used as a dessert with honey and walnuts. Its sweetish, nearly saltless structure makes it suitable for both savory and sweet recipes.
Can Manouri Be Grilled?
Yes; it can be sliced thick and grilled briefly. The edges brown, the inside stays soft, and it is served drizzled with honey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is manouri the same as curd cheese?
They are from the same family and made by a similar method; since manouri is enriched with cream, it is fattier and more richly creamy than curd cheese.
Is manouri salty?
No; it is much less salty than cheeses like feta, which is why it also suits sweet uses.
What is manouri served with?
With honey, walnuts, fresh and dried fruit; it also pairs well with vegetables in salad and meze plates.