Erzurum Civil Cheese (Civil Peyniri) is a traditional cheese native to Erzurum, Turkey, celebrated for its low-fat content, unique thread-like texture, and distinctive production process. This regional specialty is crafted from skimmed milk sourced from animals grazing on Erzurum’s nutrient-rich highland pastures, resulting in a healthy and flavorful cheese that reflects the region’s rich culinary heritage.

Distinctive Features

Production Process
The production of Erzurum Civil Cheese is a meticulous process that ensures its distinctive characteristics:

1. Skimmed Milk: Milk from animals grazing on Erzurum’s high-altitude pastures is separated to remove its fat content, making the cheese naturally low-fat.
2. Acidification and Coagulation: The skimmed milk undergoes controlled acidification and is coagulated using liquid rennet (şirden mayası), forming curds.
3. Heating and Mixing: The curds are heated and mixed, a step critical for forming the cheese’s cohesive structure.
4. Hanging and Thread Formation: The curd is hung and stretched, creating the signature thread-like structure that sets Civil Cheese apart from other varieties.
5. Salting and Storage: Minimal salt is added, and the cheese is stored in large blocks, ensuring a mild flavor profile.

Unique Texture and Appearance
Erzurum Civil Cheese is characterized by its thread-like structure, which is formed through the hanging and stretching process. Unlike other similar cheeses, it is not cylindrical but rather presents as a cohesive block with uniformly aligned threads. The cheese is typically cut into blocks about four fingers wide, with no visible separation of threads.

Flavor Profile

• Mild Saltiness: Due to its production in large blocks and minimal surface area, it retains less salt compared to other string-like cheeses.
• Creamy and Delicate Taste: Its mild and creamy flavor makes it a versatile ingredient in various dishes or a standalone delicacy.

Health Benefits
Erzurum Civil Cheese is low in fat due to the use of skimmed milk, making it a healthy option for those on a diet. It is also free from any additives or preservatives, with only milk, rennet, and salt used in its production.

Regional Identity and Culinary Significance

Erzurum Civil Cheese is deeply rooted in the region’s culinary traditions and has spread to neighboring provinces under names like "saç peyniri" or "tel peyniri." However, it stands apart due to its cohesive, non-cylindrical structure and unique production methods.

Culinary Uses

• Breakfast: Often served as part of a traditional Turkish breakfast.
• Baked Dishes: Used in savory pastries like börek for its mild flavor and excellent melting properties.
• Standalone Snack: Enjoyed on its own or with bread for a simple yet satisfying treat.

Why Erzurum Civil Cheese is Unique

1. Thread-Like Texture: Created through a specialized hanging and stretching process, making it distinctive among Turkish cheeses.
2. Low Salt Content: Its large block format results in lower salt retention, offering a milder taste.
3. Healthy Option: Made from skimmed milk, it is naturally low in fat, suitable for dietary needs.
4. Traditional Craftsmanship: Produced using time-honored methods unique to Erzurum, highlighting regional expertise.
5. Regional Milk: Derived from the milk of animals grazing on Erzurum’s nutrient-rich highland pastures, imparting a natural flavor.

A Symbol of Erzurum’s Culinary Heritage

Erzurum Civil Cheese is more than just a dairy product; it is a representation of the region’s agricultural practices, artisanal skills, and rich culinary traditions. Its unique texture, low-fat content, and mild flavor make it a must-try for cheese enthusiasts and a staple for those seeking authentic Turkish cuisine. Whether enjoyed at breakfast, used in cooking, or savored on its own, Erzurum Civil Cheese offers a distinctive taste of Erzurum’s heritage.