Cheese Foodies: Popular Cheeses Found in Israel

Shavuot is a celebration of the giving of the Torah on Mount Sinai. One of its traditions is the abundance of scrumptious dairy treats we get to indulge in, such as cheesecake, cheese blintzes, and cheese kreplach.

Cheese holds great significance in Israel not only during Shavuot but also throughout the year. There is a wide variety available, ranging from artisanal creations crafted by skilled cheesemakers to the more common types found in stores. Let's explore these popular cheese varieties in more detail.

Popular Cheese Varieties Found in Israel

Israel boasts a diverse array of cheeses. It's incredible that each variety has its unique flavors and textures.

Gvinah Levana

Gvinah Levana is a soft, mild cheese like cream cheese. Israel love this cheese staple. It’s spread it on bread and used in cheesecake and dips.

Labneh

Labneh is a strained yogurt popular in the Middle East. It’s used as a dip or spread on its own. You can also liven it up by drizzling with olive oil and sprinkling za'atar herb on top. Then scoop it up with warm pita bread. Labneh has a tangy yet smooth texture that makes it a crowd favorite during Shavuot celebrations.

Tzfatit

Tzfatit cheese comes from the city of Tzfat, hence its name. It has a crumbly texture similar to feta but tends to be milder and sweeter. Use Tzfatit cheese as a salad topper and pastry or lasagna filling.

Feta Cheese

Feta cheese is well-known throughout Israel. It's made by brining sheep or goat milk. Feta's crumbly texture works well as a topping. The tangy, savory flavor pairs perfectly with pita, salads, and pastries.

Gouda Cheese

Israel has certain cheeses that originate from Dutch immigrants, with Gouda being one of them. Gouda is a well-liked cheese that finds its way onto various dishes, including cheese platters and cheesecake. Its distinctive flavor is a result of the aging process and the blend of herbs used in its production.

Bulgarian Cheese

Another staple is Bulgarian cheese, brought to Israel by Bulgarian Jews. It's sheep's milk cheese, slightly salty with feta's texture. It’s used as bread spread, sambusak filling, and cracker topping.

Soft Cheese

Israel also enjoy a variety of soft cheeses, including brie and camembert. These cheeses are often served as appetizers or as a dessert course.

Brie is served with fruits, unsalted nuts, and camembert goes well with seasonal juicy fruits like strawberries and apricots.

Cheesecakes

No Shavuot feast in Israel is complete without cheesecake for dessert. Israeli cheesecakes blend soft white cheese with the usual ingredients. The topping could be sour cream or crispy crumbs, as you like.

There are many creative variations of cheesecakes, and if you want to try some, Jamie Geller presents you 7 wonderful cheesecake recipes Each bite of these cheesecakes will transport you back to your cherished childhood moments during the holidays.

Shavuot Food Basket: Donate Today

This Shavuot, let's remember those in need. One way you can help is by donating to the Yad Ezra V'Shulamit Project. The project aims to provide Shavuot food baskets to underprivileged Israeli families.

Your donation will help us supply 12,000 holiday food baskets filled with staples like milk, cheese, fruit and other basics. These gifts will brighten Shavuot for those in need.