Xynomizithra


Xynomizithra or xynomyzithra is a whey cheese with some added milk; it is a sour variant of Mizithra, and made from ewes' and/or goats' milk. The proportion of full-cream milk is about 15%.
It is mainly produced on the island of Crete but other areas in Greece also produce it. Xynomyzithra Kritis is a European protected designation of origin.

Production

Xynomizithra is made from strained ewe and/or goat whey which is heated and stirred. A small amount of full-cream milk is then added. The resulting curd stands for 30 minutes and is then put into molds to drain. It is then pressed and ripened for not less than 2 months.

Serving

It comes in various sizes and its shape is usually truncated cone or ball. The cheese is soft, snow-white, creamy, and moist, with a sour taste.
It is commonly served with honey as a dessert. It is also used as a table cheese, in salads, and in baked goods, notably in small cheese pies.