Herbed Cheese

What Is Herbed Cheese (Otlu Peynir)?

Otlu peynir is a cheese specific to Van and its surroundings, prepared from sheep's or cow's milk fresh white cheese molds interspersed with local wild herbs such as sirmo, mendi, and sirümsük, and matured for months in brine.

The herbs are thought to both add aroma and help naturally preserve the cheese. As it matures, it takes on a sharper, herbier, and saltier taste.

Nutritional Values of Herbed Cheese

As otlu peynir is a full-fat white cheese type, it is relatively high in calories and protein; 100 g provides about 300 kcal of energy and 18 g of protein. Since it is kept in brine, its salt ratio is also markedly high.

What Are the Benefits of Herbed Cheese?

With its high protein and calcium content, it can be considered part of a balanced diet; the local herbs it contains stand out in traditional cuisine as a flavor and aroma contribution.

This information is general; otlu peynir is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment. Due to its high salt content, it is recommended that people with salt restrictions consume it carefully.

How to Choose Herbed Cheese

When choosing otlu peynir, attention should be paid to the distribution of the herbs, the texture of the cheese, and the clarity of the brine.

• The herbs should be evenly distributed throughout the cheese, not piled in one area.
• The brine should be clear; cloudiness may be a sign of spoilage.
• The texture should be dense and slightly elastic, not overly hardened.

How to Store Herbed Cheese

Otlu peynir can be stored in its own brine in the refrigerator for weeks or even months. If the brine decreases, boiled and cooled salted water can be added on top to keep the cheese from drying out.

Using Herbed Cheese in the Kitchen

Otlu peynir is most often sliced and served at breakfast tables; it forms a classic pairing with bread and butter.

How Is Herbed Cheese Served at Breakfast?

It is thinly sliced and presented on a plate, usually eaten together with fresh bread, olives, and tomato-cucumber. At some tables it is accompanied by honey and clotted cream (kaymak).

Which Recipes Use Herbed Cheese?

Although otlu peynir is mostly consumed as a breakfast item, it is also used in some recipes as a börek filling and in mezes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the herbs in otlu peynir?

Wild herbs specific to the Van region, such as sirmo, mendi, and sirümsük, are the most commonly used; different herb mixes may be preferred depending on the region.

Is otlu peynir very salty?

Since it is matured in brine, it is generally saltier than other fresh white cheeses; its salt can be reduced by soaking it briefly in water before consumption.

Where is otlu peynir from?

In Turkey it is a cheese most identified with Van and its surroundings; similar herbed cheeses are also produced in neighboring provinces like Kars and Ağrı.

How long does it take for otlu peynir to mature?

It is usually matured in brine for a few months up to six months; the longer the maturation period, the sharper its taste becomes.

Can otlu peynir be frozen?

Freezing is not recommended; it can lead to loss of texture and aroma. The best storage method is keeping it in its own brine in the refrigerator.