Feta cheese is a Greek food staple, used both as a snack and tasty addition to entrees. However, even if you love this flavorful addition to your salads, pizzas, or pasta dishes, you may not know exactly where it comes from or how significant it has been for Greek food through the years. To enhance your appreciation of feta cheese, here’s some information about its long history.

Accidental Discovery

By most accounts, feta cheese was discovered by accident back in Ancient Greece. The exact date is unknown, but historians believe it has been around for about 8,000 years. Some Greeks used to store their milk in brine as a way of preserving it. However, when left in the brine solution for an extended period, some of the liquid would evaporate and leave the milk to curdle, forming solid cheese. When they went to remove their milk from the brine, they discovered a cheese that had a distinct, bold taste and aroma, which is now known as feta.

Greek Heritage

Through the years, feta became the national cheese of Greece, where it was used in a variety of dishes, including salads, pies, and eggs. It can also be consumed on its own or alongside fruit or crackers and meats. It is so important to the Greek culture that the European Union actually regulates what qualifies as real feta cheese. Specifically, the cheese must be produced in particular parts of Greece and can only contain sheep’s milk and up to 30 percent of goat’s milk.

It must also have specific moisture, fat, salt, and protein content. The regulation is in place because feta cheese is such a big part of the Greek culture, and this prevents producers from altering the traditional flavors or production processes. 

Worldwide Spread

As Greek immigrants began moving to other parts of the world, the flavor of feta cheese came with them. It has become common at Greek restaurants and stores throughout the U.S. and other parts of the world. There are even similar types of cheese produced in other countries. However, authentic feta cheese is still made in Greece using traditional practices and then shipped to other countries. 

If you’re interested in feta and other Greek food favorites, head to Gondola Pizza House in Crossville, TN. The Greek restaurant features a variety of specialty pizzas, steaks, and side dishes made with quality ingredients. The family-owned and -operated restaurant has been serving local patrons for more than 40 years and provides a welcoming and friendly atmosphere for people of all ages. Visit the restaurant’s website to see a full menu or call (931) 484-7647 to schedule a reservation.