In an interview with «FACTS», a Ukrainian woman shared about one of the most delicious Ukrainian cheeses and gave recipes for dishes using it. The interviewee, Oksana, is a passionate cheese lover and an experienced cook. She believes that Ukrainian cuisine has a lot to offer, and the cheese she speaks of is one of its hidden gems.
The cheese that Oksana talks about is called «Bandura». It is a semi-hard, tangy cheese made from cow’s milk. The name comes from the Ukrainian folk instrument, the bandura, as the shape of the cheese resembles its strings. This cheese has a unique taste, and it can be enjoyed on its own or used as an ingredient in various dishes.
Oksana explained that «Bandura» cheese is traditionally made in the western regions of Ukraine, mainly in the Carpathian Mountains. The cheese-making process is still quite old-fashioned, with the use of natural ingredients and no preservatives. The result is a high-quality, flavorful cheese that is gaining popularity not only in Ukraine but also abroad.
When asked about her favorite way to eat «Bandura» cheese, Oksana shared that she loves to pair it with homemade bread and a glass of red wine. She also enjoys using it in her cooking, as it adds a unique touch to any dish. Oksana kindly shared two of her favorite recipes that incorporate «Bandura» cheese.
The first recipe is for «Bandura» cheese and beetroot salad. For this delicious dish, you will need:
— 200 g of «Bandura» cheese, cut into cubes
— 2 medium-sized beetroots, peeled and grated
— 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
— 1 tablespoon of olive oil
— 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
— Salt and pepper to taste
In a bowl, mix together the grated beetroot, sliced onion, and «Bandura» cheese cubes. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes before serving. This salad is not only colorful and beautiful, but it also has a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
The second recipe is for «Bandura» cheese and mushroom risotto. To make this creamy and flavorful dish, you will need:
— 300 g of «Bandura» cheese, grated
— 1 cup of arborio rice
— 300 g of assorted mushrooms, sliced
— 1 small onion, diced
— 1 clove of garlic, minced
— 2 tablespoons of butter
— 1 tablespoon of olive oil
— 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
— Salt and pepper to taste
In a pot, heat the olive oil and butter, then sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant. Add in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are soft and slightly browned. Stir in the rice and let it toast for a minute. Gradually add in the broth, stirring constantly. Once the broth is absorbed, add more until the rice is cooked and creamy. Remove from heat and stir in the grated «Bandura» cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese and mushrooms if desired.
Oksana also shared some tips on how to choose the best «Bandura» cheese. She recommends buying it from local farmers or farmers’ markets rather than supermarkets, as the quality is usually better. She also suggests looking for cheese with a yellowish tint, as it indicates that it is made from high-quality milk.
In conclusion, «Bandura» cheese is a true Ukrainian delicacy that deserves more recognition. Its unique taste and versatility make it a must-try for any cheese lover or food enthusiast. Thanks to Oksana’s generosity, we now have two delicious recipes to add to our repertoire, and we hope to see «Bandura» cheese gaining more popularity in the future.
