What it’s about

Shavuot, a significant festival in the Jewish calendar, is renowned not only for its spiritual heritage but also for its rich culinary traditions that prominently feature cheese. Dishes like cheese soufflés, eggplant lasagna, cheesecake, and cheese blintzes adorn tables as families come together to celebrate.

Why it matters

Cheese plays a central role in Shavuot celebrations, symbolizing the land of Israel’s promise of “a land flowing with milk and honey.” Highlighting the historical significance and diverse varieties of cheese enriches the understanding and appreciation of cultural traditions tied to this festive season.

Delving into Cheese History

Among the vast array of cheese varieties, Gouda stands out for its enduring tradition. Originating from the Netherlands, Gouda dates back to 1184, making it one of the oldest continually produced cheeses. Its rich, caramel-like flavor reflects centuries of craftsmanship.

Cheddar: A Global Favorite

Cheddar, originating from the village of Cheddar in Somerset, England, has become a global favorite, especially popular in the UK and US. Its versatility and distinctive flavor make it ideal for many dishes that find their way onto Shavuot tables.

Mozzarella and Parmesan: Italian Inspirations

Mozzarella, known for its soft texture and preparation via the “stretched-curd” method, and Parmesan, often hailed as the “king of cheeses,” both offer unique flavors and textures to delight at any Shavuot meal. Notably, Parmigiano Reggiano was voted the best cheese in the world in 2023 by TasteAtlas.

Feta: The Greek Delight

Feta, originating from Greece, adds a tangy and salty dimension to Shavuot dishes. Traditionally aged in brine, its crumbly texture makes it an excellent addition to many Mediterranean-inspired recipes.

Shavuot Delicacies

On Shavuot, popular dishes include cheese blintzes, a beloved Ashkenazi treat from Eastern Europe. These delicacies are traditionally filled with sweetened cheese and sometimes raisins, presenting a delightful blend of texture and flavor.

From Simple to Sophisticated

While simple cheese dishes like omelets and macaroni & cheese offer comfort, sophisticated creations such as cheese soufflés lend an air of elegance to Shavuot celebrations. The secret to a perfect soufflé lies in the careful whisking of egg whites to achieve the desired puffiness.

The Effort and Reward

The time and skill involved in preparing these cheese-centric dishes underscore the significance of tradition and the joy of bringing family together during Shavuot. As Chester Cheetah whimsically noted, “It’s not easy being cheesy,” but the reward is nothing short of delightful.

This story was first published on jpost.com.