Kasseri is a type of cheese found in many traditional dishes from the Macedonian, Thrace, Thessaly, and other regions of Greece where it has been used for centuries. Here are five delicious dishes where kasseri is the star of the show:
1. Saganaki: This fried cheese dish consists of a thick slice of kasseri that is pan-fried until golden and crispy, topped with fresh lemon juice, oregano, and sometimes chili flakes. It is great served as an appetizer or alongside other dishes.
2. Tiropita: This Greek-style pie is made with layers of buttery phyllo dough filled with kasseri, feta cheese, and other ingredients like spinach or mushrooms. It is baked until golden and can be served as an appetizer or main course.
3. Moussaka: This classic Greek casserole features layers of eggplant, potatoes, ground beef or lamb, and a creamy bechamel sauce topped with kasseri cheese. It is baked until golden brown and served hot.
4. Pastitsio: This hearty pasta bake consists of layers of macaroni noodles mixed with a savory meat sauce and topped with a creamy béchamel sauce sprinkled with kasseri cheese. It is baked until golden and can be served as an appetizer or main course.
5. Kefalotyri: This traditional Greek cheese is a hard, salty variety of kasseri that is often used in grated form for dishes like pastitsio, moussaka, and other baked dishes. It can also be served as a table cheese or used in salads, sandwiches, and more.