Brinza is an integral part of the cultural and culinary heritage of many countries in Eastern Europe and the Middle East.
Made primarily from sheep or cow’s milk, and sometimes from a mixture of both, brinza is renowned for its unique taste qualities and high content of beneficial substances.
This salty cheese with a soft yet dense texture has a rich aroma and a slightly sour taste, making it a popular ingredient in salads, appetizers, and main dishes.
Brinza is a valuable source of calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for strengthening bone tissue, and it also contains B vitamins and fat-soluble vitamins A, D, and E.
Due to its composition, brinza can help improve the condition of the skin, hair, and nails.
Nutritional Value
The glycemic index of brinza is extremely low, and its calorie content is about 260 kcal per 100 grams of product, allowing it to be consumed in moderate amounts without disrupting ketosis.
A standard piece of brinza (about 30 grams) contains approximately 100 calories, 7 grams of protein, 8 grams of fat, and 1 gram of carbohydrates.
How to Choose Quality Brinza
When selecting quality brinza, pay attention to the product’s composition.
Ideal brinza should contain a minimum number of ingredients – the base should be milk, starter culture, and salt. Avoid products with additives such as preservatives, flavor enhancers, or other unnatural components.
The texture of brinza is also important – quality cheese should be firm but crumble easily when pressed.
The color should be uniform, without spots or foreign inclusions.
The smell of fresh brinza is pleasant, with a slight milky sourness, without sharp or unpleasant notes.
Store the product in the refrigerator, in a saline solution, to prevent drying out and to preserve its flavor.
Interesting Facts About Brinza
The Origin of Brinza. Brinza is a traditional dairy product with ancient roots. It is believed that its production began over 2000 years ago in the Balkans and the Caucasus.
The Shelf Life of Brinza. Due to its high salt content, brinza can be stored in the refrigerator for several months if properly packed in brine.
The History of Brinza. Legends say that brinza was accidentally discovered by shepherds who left milk in a bag made from sheep’s skin, resulting in the milk souring and forming curds.
Lipid Profile
Brinza contains the following types of fats:
- Saturated fats: 60-70% of total fat volume
- Monounsaturated fats: 20-30% of total fat volume
- Polyunsaturated fats: 5-10% of total fat volume
- Omega-3 ALA: less than 1%
- Omega-6 LA: less than 1%
