Feta cheese is a popular cheese that originated in Greece and is used in a variety of dishes around the world. While feta cheese is typically crumbled and used as a topping or ingredient in salads and other dishes, it can also be melted and used in recipes such as dips, sauces, and even as a pizza topping.
Melting feta cheese in the microwave can be a bit tricky, as feta cheese has a tendency to become crumbly and dry when heated. However, with a few simple tips and tricks, you can easily melt feta cheese in the microwave without it losing its texture and flavor.
And, unless you’ve been living under a culinary rock, you’ve probably seen or heard about the viral TikTok feta pasta recipe. However, with a baking time of 30 minutes, it is not suitable for those in a hurry. Fortunately, an invention has been created to help with this problem.
With a few simple tips and tricks, you can easily melt feta cheese in the microwave without it losing its texture and flavor. So, how to melt Feta Cheese in the Microwave?
What is Feta Cheese?
Unlike the popular cheddar cheese, feta is made from sheep’s milk. The cheese is a brined curd that is salty and crumbly in texture. It is sometimes combined with goat milk.
But the goat milk content per slice must be no more than 30% for feta cheese to be labeled as such. It is typically sold in blocks, but it is also available pre-crumbled to save you time.
The History of Feta Cheese
Feta originated in Greece; in fact, the Greek word for feta is “slice.” The poem “Odyssey” by Homer, written in the 8th century BC, mentions the origin of feta.
According to legend, Cyclope Polyfimos was transporting sheep milk in bags made from animal stomachs when the milk curdled one day. He discovered that the now-solidified milk tasted quite good. As a result, feta cheese was created.
The Healthier Option
Feta cheese is thought to be a healthier alternative to cow’s milk cheese. It is much easier to digest and contains fewer fats and calories. In addition to protein, calcium, vitamin B6, vitamin A, and phosphorus.
Additionally, because it is less anti-inflammatory and less allergic, it might be a choice for individuals who are sensitive to dairy. Just keep in mind that there might be too much of a good thing; feta is rich in sodium, so don’t overdo it!
Does Feta Cheese Melt?
In contrast to other cheeses, such as Gouda, feta does not melt. Feta cheese has a strong acidity as well as a high moisture level, which prevents it from melting like the cheese in our classic grilled cheese sandwich. In fact, 83 grams of feta in a 150-gram block is water!
However, Feta cheese can melt, but it doesn’t melt in the same way as some other types of cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella. Feta cheese is a brined cheese, which means that it has been preserved in a salty brine solution. This brining process gives feta cheese its characteristic crumbly texture and tangy flavor.
When heated, feta cheese will soften and become slightly gooey, but it won’t melt into a smooth and stretchy consistency like some other cheeses. It may become slightly browned or caramelized on the surface, but the cheese will retain its crumbly texture.
Feta cheese can be melted in the microwave, oven, or on the stovetop with the addition of a small amount of liquid, like milk or cream. However, it’s important to heat feta cheese gently and slowly to prevent it from becoming too dry or crumbly.
How Can You Melt Feta Cheese In The Microwave?
There are only four simple steps required to make feta cheese melt in the microwave…
Step 1: Cut The Feta Cheese Into Small Pieces
The first step to melting feta cheese in the microwave is to cut it into small pieces. This will help it melt more evenly and prevent it from becoming too dry and crumbly.
Step 2: Place The Feta Cheese In A Microwave-Safe Bowl
Next, place the feta cheese in a microwave-safe bowl. It’s important to use a microwave-safe bowl to prevent any harmful chemicals from leaching into your food.
Step 3: Add A Little Bit Of Liquid
To help the feta cheese melt more smoothly, add a little bit of liquid to the bowl. This can be water, milk, or cream, depending on the recipe you’re making. Start with a small amount of liquid and add more as needed.
Step 4: Microwave The Feta Cheese In Short Intervals
Microwave the feta cheese in short intervals of 15-20 seconds at a time, stirring after each interval. This will help prevent the cheese from overheating and becoming too dry.
Step 5: Check The Consistency Of The Cheese
After each interval, check the consistency of the cheese. If it’s not fully melted, continue to microwave it in short intervals until it reaches the desired consistency.
Step 6: Use The Melted Feta Cheese
Once the feta cheese is melted, it’s ready to be used in your recipe. Be sure to use it right away, as melted feta cheese tends to thicken as it cools.
TikTok Feta Pasta Recipe
So you know how to melt feta cheese in the microwave, but how about creating an entire dinner out of it? Here’s how to make microwave feta pasta.
First, get a good microwaveable container; we like the CorningWare French White 2-1/2-Quart Round Casserole Dish with Glass Cover. After that, add a handful of cherry tomatoes, 30g of feta cheese, a tablespoon of olive oil, 60g of pasta, 150ml of water, and a pinch of salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste.
Combine everything and place it in the microwave. Do not forget to check and mix at regular intervals!
And there it is after four minutes! With a little extra feta on top, you’ll have a gourmet meal in no time.
Do You Need New Containers?
A high-quality microwaveable container is the most important piece of equipment for melting feta cheese in the microwave. We like the Superior Glass Meal Prep Containers, which come in a set of three and have a lid for storing leftovers.
Consider these eco-friendly Glass Food Storage Containers with Lids (Bamboo), which are not only microwave safe but also stylish. If you’re on a tight budget, the Rubbermaid Easy Find Lids 7-Cup Food Storage and Organization Container will work just fine.
Last Thoughts
Feta cheese is a versatile cheese that goes well with salads, pizzas, pies, and sandwiches! It’s salty, sharp, and acidic, giving your dishes a kick. It is hardly possible to overstate how simple it is to melt feta cheese in the microwave.
So, invite your friends over and wow them with your new culinary skills, all accomplished in the microwave.
Have fun zapping!
