Telemea

Telemea is a Romanian brined white cheese traditionally made from sheep's milk. It is similar to other brined cheeses like feta, sirene, and halloumi, and is characterized by its salty, slightly tangy flavor and crumbly texture.

Production: Telemea is produced by coagulating milk with rennet or other suitable enzymes. The resulting curd is then cut, drained, and brined in a saltwater solution. The brining process contributes to the cheese's characteristic salty taste and helps to preserve it. Traditionally, the cheese was aged for a period of time in wooden barrels, though modern production often uses plastic containers.

Variations: While traditionally made from sheep's milk, telemea can also be made from cow's milk or buffalo milk. These variations may have slightly different flavors and textures compared to the sheep's milk version. Romanian regulations stipulate specific quality standards for telemea cheeses, including requirements for milk type and production methods, especially for cheeses marketed with protected designation of origin (PDO) status.

Uses: Telemea is a versatile cheese used in a variety of dishes. It can be eaten fresh, crumbled over salads, used as a filling for pastries, or grilled. It is a common ingredient in Romanian cuisine and is often served as part of a meze platter. Its salty flavor pairs well with fresh vegetables and other Balkan-inspired dishes.

Protected Designation of Origin (PDO): Certain types of Telemea, such as "Telemea de Ibănești," have been granted PDO status by the European Union. This designation protects the name and ensures that the cheese is produced using traditional methods and ingredients within a specific geographical region. This guarantees the quality and authenticity of the product.