Cheese in a jar

Recipe for Jarred Cas: A Homemade Delicacy

Preparation Time: 1 hour
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Number of Servings: 4 jars of 800 g

In the heart of the mountains, where clean air and nature intertwine, lies a culinary treasure: cas. This delicious cheese, made from sheep and cow milk, is a versatile ingredient, perfect for traditional dishes. In this recipe, I will show you how to preserve cas in jars, so you can enjoy its authentic taste throughout the year.

Brief History of Cas

Cas is a cheese with a rich history, prepared by generations in rural households. It is appreciated not only for its taste but also for its nutritional benefits. Rich in protein, calcium, and vitamins, cas is an ideal ingredient for a healthy diet. The method of preserving cas in jars has been passed down from grandparents to grandchildren, remaining an irreplaceable practice in many households.

Necessary Ingredients

- 10 kg of well-aged cas (make sure it is of good quality, without excessive whey)
- 11 tablespoons of coarse salt (one tablespoon per kilogram of cas plus one extra for added flavor)

Necessary Utensils

- A small, thin knife (for cleaning the rind)
- A large basin
- 800 g jars (sterilized before use)
- A large pot
- A clean towel (to prevent jars from slipping in the water)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Cheese:
Start by carefully cleaning the rind of the cas with a small, thin knife. This step is essential to avoid any bitter taste that may come from the rind.

2. Cutting the Cheese:
Cut the cas into quarters, then into thin slices. Place all the slices in a large basin.

3. Adding Salt:
Sprinkle the 11 tablespoons of coarse salt over the cheese. Let the cheese rest for an hour so that the salt can soften and distribute evenly.

4. Kneading the Cheese:
Using your hands, knead the cheese roughly, breaking up the large pieces until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. It is important not to crush it completely, but to leave some larger pieces for a pleasant texture.

5. Filling the Jars:
Prepare the sterilized jars. Fill them with the cheese mixture, leaving small gaps inside. These gaps will allow the fat to settle during boiling. Do not press too hard, but leave a slight compression.

6. Boiling in a Bain-Marie:
In a large pot, place a clean towel at the bottom, fill with water halfway, and place the jars with tightly screwed lids. Leave the pot on medium heat. Boil for about 35 - 40 minutes, or until you see the yellow fat left by the cas filling the gaps in the jars. Do not let it boil too long, as the cheese will melt completely.

7. Cooling and Storing:
Once you have turned off the heat, let the jars cool in the water. After they have cooled, store them in a dark, cool place where they can be kept for a long time without developing mold.

Serving Suggestions

Jarred cas can be served alongside warm polenta and sour milk, a classic duo that brings traditional flavors. It is also perfect for use in recipes such as Dobrogea stew, pies, or branzoaice. I encourage you to add it to tarts or poale-n-brâu for a unique taste.

Variations and Tips

If you want to experiment, try adding herbs or spices to the cheese mixture before putting it in jars. An interesting idea would be to add a little garlic or chili pepper for extra flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

Cas is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and vitamins, with a low carbohydrate content. It is ideal for a balanced diet and can be consumed by those who wish to maintain their weight as well as by those who practice sports. A 100 g serving of cas provides about 300 kcal, making it a nutritious and filling snack.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use cheese from other types of milk?
Of course! While sheep cheese offers a specific flavor, you can use cow cheese or a combination of both.

2. How can I check if the cheese is well-aged?
Well-aged cheese has a firm texture and a slightly salty taste. Avoid cheese that has a soft consistency or a sour taste.

3. How long can I keep the cheese in jars?
If stored correctly, preserved cheese in jars can last up to a year.

4. What other dishes can I make with this cheese?
In addition to those mentioned earlier, cheese can be used in salads, sauces, or even pizza.

Now that you know how to prepare cas in a jar, feel free to let your creativity run wild. Enjoy this traditional delicacy and share it with your loved ones!