World Flavors Cookbook

Gjiza (Albanian Ricotta-Style Cheese)

Name: Gjiza (Albanian Ricotta-Style Cheese)
Cook time: 60 min
Cuisine: Albania
Ingredients: 4L fresh sheep or cow milk whey; 500ml whole milk; 2 tbsp white vinegar or lemon juice; Pinch of salt

A soft, crumbly fresh whey cheese with a slightly sweet, tangy flavor — Albania's answer to ricotta, traditionally made from sheep's milk whey.

Cuisine: Albania

Ingredients

4L fresh sheep or cow milk whey
500ml whole milk
2 tbsp white vinegar or lemon juice
Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Heat whey slowly to near boiling (about 85°C). 2. Add whole milk and continue to heat gently. 3. Add vinegar or lemon juice to encourage curding. 4. When curds form, skim them off with a slotted spoon into cheesecloth. 5. Drain for 1–2 hours. Season lightly with salt. 6. Serve fresh with bread, honey, or in pastries.