Greek Mythology, Italian Names And Feta Cheese
Lee Dobbins

Defined Tag: Feta Cheese.

Each increase has many mysteries in its architecture and civilization but it's mysteries are not confined to stone.  Feta cheese, for example, is a product of this ancient civilization and its recipe has remained the same over the years.

Though definitely Greek in origin, the name "feta cheese" can actually be traced to the Italian language. Feta is a derivative of "fetta," the Italian word for slice. The Greek cheese is made up of slices of curd substance exposed in brine. It is white in color, and it tastes salty, but the distinct flavor is definitely there.

Feta cheese is so old that it can be traced back to the era of Homer the book poet of the ninth century Greece.  In his poem, the Odyssey, and in the hero, Odysseus travels to the land of Polyphemus the Cyclops.  The Cyclops drank milk from cheap and would often bring milk and meat back to his cave to have something to eat over the winter.  The milk that he carried tucked under his arm would harden into a salty flavored white cheese.

Because of this, many people throughout the ages used to believe that Polyphemus is actually the father of cheese.

Feta cheese has an acquired taste for many.  Typical cheeses take a couple of days to be processed but feta takes several months and actually goes better with age.  In the 17th century, this cheese was so coveted that it was only served on special occasions along with a glass of red wine.


Nowadays, the feta variety of cheese is still being considered as a special treat in many territories where this kind of delicacy is not as widely available. Indeed, it's one of the most special cheeses in the world. It has been enjoyed for many centuries without fail, a testament to the timeless nature of its taste.