Edirne White Cheese is a renowned traditional cheese, recognized as a Geographically Indicated Product, originating from Edirne, a city in northwestern Turkey. This cheese is celebrated for its rich taste, unique production process, and the influence of the region’s natural environment on its quality.

Production Process

Edirne White Cheese is crafted using fresh milk from sheep, goats, and cows that graze on the lush pastures of Edirne. The region's vegetation is shaped by the fertile deltas of the Tunca, Meriç, Arda, and Ergene rivers, along with the area's distinct climate. The milk is pasteurized at a temperature of 65-68°C for 20-30 minutes, ensuring its safety while preserving its natural properties. Following pasteurization, the milk is coagulated using natural rennet to form curds. These curds are then drained of excess whey, shaped, salted in brine, and aged in cold storage. The cheese matures over time, developing its distinct flavor and texture.

Key Characteristics

Edirne White Cheese is defined by its simplicity and purity, as it is made using only milk, rennet, and salt. No additives or auxiliary substances are used in its production, maintaining the traditional and natural approach. The cheese has a semi-hard texture, a creamy white color, and a mildly salty yet rich flavor. Its taste is influenced by the natural flora of the region, including native herbs and thyme, which are part of the diet of the grazing animals.

Cultural and Culinary Significance

Edirne White Cheese holds a significant place in local cuisine and culture. It is often served at breakfast tables, used in traditional dishes, or enjoyed as a standalone delicacy. Its rich flavor and quality make it a sought-after product both locally and internationally.

Distinctive Features

1. Exclusive use of milk from animals grazing on Edirne’s unique flora, including wild herbs and thyme.
2. Traditional production methods with no artificial additives.
3. The influence of the region’s rivers and climate, which shape the vegetation and, consequently, the milk quality.
4. A maturing process that enhances the cheese’s texture and flavor, giving it a characteristic taste that cannot be replicated outside the region.

Edirne White Cheese is not just a food product but a representation of the region’s heritage, offering a taste of Edirne’s natural and cultural richness. Visitors to Edirne can explore its production process, sample the cheese, and appreciate its role in the local culinary tradition.