Egypt’s Roumi cheese is a beloved staple and a culinary expertise that delights the hearts and style buds of locals and guests alike.
With its wealthy taste and versatile makes use of, this cheese has develop into the go-to selection for a lot of, making it some of the fashionable cheeses in Egypt. However what precisely makes Roumi so particular, and how are you going to take pleasure in it in varied scrumptious methods?
The Rise of Roumi Cheese
The consumption of Roumi cheese in Egypt has reached roughly 48,000 tons yearly. Regardless of the excessive manufacturing ranges, Egypt nonetheless imports about 90 % of its cheese manufacturing inputs. The demand for Roumi cheese is important, as evidenced by the 27,700 tons of varied cheese sorts exported in the course of the first quarter of 2023.
Roumi cheese boasts a wealthy historical past tied to the Mediterranean, with its identify stemming from the Arabic phrase for Roman. Historically comprised of cow’s or buffalo’s milk, Roumi is crafted with cautious growing old, which reinforces its sturdy taste and crumbly texture.
The introduction of Roumi cheese to Egypt is commonly attributed to the Greeks who settled within the nation in the late eighteenth century. It gained recognition, notably in Alexandria, the place it was additionally known as Turkish cheese as a result of vital variety of Turks concerned in its manufacturing.
The rise in Roumi‘s recognition will be attributed to a number of components. Its wealthy taste, versatility, and talent to enrich a variety of dishes make it a favourite amongst house cooks {and professional} cooks alike.
Moreover, as world culinary traits lean towards genuine, locally-sourced components, Roumi cheese has discovered its approach into each conventional recipes and fashionable interpretations reminiscent of in pizzas.
Manufacturing and recognition
Egyptian Roumi cheese is distinguished by its distinctive manufacturing course of. Made by curdling cow’s milk with rennet, the cheese undergoes fermentation for a particular interval, permitting its flavors to develop.
After being lower into blocks, it’s aged for a number of months, leading to its signature style and texture.
In keeping with a preliminary feasibility research on the manufacturing of Roumi cheese, this cheese shouldn’t be solely flavorful but additionally provides a number of vital well being advantages. As an example, it’s low in energy whereas being wealthy in important vitamins, making it a wholesome addition to meals. Moreover, Roumi cheese offers helpful Omega-3 fatty acids, that are necessary for coronary heart well being.
Furthermore, it serves as a great supply of particular proteins and nutritional vitamins which might be essential for total well being. One other noteworthy facet is that Roumi cheese comprises probiotic micro organism, which might help digestion and improve intestine well being. This mixture of style and vitamin contributes to its lasting enchantment in Egyptian delicacies.
The right way to Get pleasure from Roumi Cheese?
One of many easiest and most satisfying methods to take pleasure in Roumi cheese is to slice it instantly from the block. Its wealthy taste makes it a pleasant snack by itself, excellent for these mid-afternoon cravings.
For a extra traditional selection, pairing Roumi with contemporary, crusty bread is a should. The sharpness of the cheese enhances the bread’s softness, making a concord that’s onerous to withstand. For an additional twist, a drizzle of olive oil on the bread earlier than including the cheese enhances the general expertise.
Crumbled Roumi cheese can even elevate salads, including a burst of taste to any dish. Whether or not blended with contemporary greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers or tossed right into a grain salad, it offers a savory punch that transforms strange salads into pleasant meals.
For these searching for a extra adventurous taste expertise, grilling Roumi cheese enhances its style and creates a deliciously crispy exterior. Serve it as half of a bigger dish, like a grilled vegetable platter or as a topping for burgers.
Egyptian Roumi cheese is very multifaceted within the kitchen. It may be loved by itself, sliced with bread or crackers, melted as a pizza topping, or added to sandwiches for additional taste.
Roumi cheese is greater than only a fashionable cheese in Egypt; it’s a logo of culinary heritage and innovation. Its versatility permits it to shine in varied dishes, making it a beloved ingredient for each on a regular basis meals and particular events.
