Ackawi Cheese vs Pljevlja Cheese

Ackawi Cheese is a soft, brined cow, goat, or sheep-milk cheese from Cyprus, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Middle East and Syria, while Pljevlja Cheese is soft to semihard and made from cow or sheep milk, originating in Montenegro.

What Is Ackawi Cheese?

Ackawi is a soft, brined cheese that originates from the Middle East, including countries such as Cyprus, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. It is made from pasteurized cow's, goat's, or sheep's milk. The cheese has a mild, milky flavor with a noticeable salty taste, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a gentle yet savory cheese experience. Its aroma is similarly mild and milky, complementing its white color. The texture is soft, making it easy to slice and use in various dishes. Ackawi is often compared to feta but is less crumbly and more elastic. It is used in both savory dishes and desserts, and can be eaten fresh or melted. Alternative spellings include Akkawi, Akawieh, and Akawi.

What Is Pljevlja Cheese?

Pljevlja is a traditional cheese from the northern region of Montenegro, made from cow's milk. It has a rich, creamy texture and a strong, salty flavor. Often served as part of a mezze platter, Pljevlja cheese is enjoyed with bread, olives, and sometimes drizzled with honey for a balance of flavors.

What's the Difference Between Ackawi Cheese and Pljevlja Cheese?

• Origin: Ackawi Cheese (Cyprus, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Middle East and Syria), Pljevlja Cheese (Montenegro)
• Milk type: Ackawi Cheese (cow's, goat's or sheep's milk), Pljevlja Cheese (Sheep’s milk, cow’s milk, mixed)
• Texture: Ackawi Cheese (soft, brined), Pljevlja Cheese (Soft to semihard)

Side-by-Side Comparison

Taste Comparison: Does Ackawi Cheese Taste Like Pljevlja Cheese?

Their flavor profiles are distinct.

Can You Substitute Ackawi Cheese for Pljevlja Cheese?

Ackawi Cheese can stand in for Pljevlja Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe. Expect soft, brined bite and body where the recipe calls for soft to semihard.

Which Is Better, Ackawi Cheese or Pljevlja Cheese?

There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a soft, brined cheese, go with Ackawi Cheese. For a soft to semihard profile, Pljevlja Cheese is the better fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ackawi Cheese the same as Pljevlja Cheese?

No, they're distinct cheeses. Ackawi Cheese originates in Cyprus, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Middle East and Syria, while Pljevlja Cheese comes from Montenegro. Ackawi Cheese is made from cow, goat, or sheep milk; Pljevlja Cheese uses cow or sheep.

Is Ackawi Cheese similar to Pljevlja Cheese?

Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.

Can I substitute Ackawi Cheese for Pljevlja Cheese?

You can, but expect a shift in richness and milk character.

Does Ackawi Cheese taste like Pljevlja Cheese?

They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.

What is Ackawi Cheese made of?

Ackawi Cheese is made from cow, goat, or sheep milk (pasteurized). It originates in Cyprus, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Middle East and Syria.

What is Pljevlja Cheese made of?

Pljevlja Cheese is made from cow or sheep milk, using traditional, industrial rennet. It's typically aged 4 to 8 weeks. It originates in Montenegro.

Which should I choose, Ackawi Cheese or Pljevlja Cheese?

It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Ackawi Cheese is soft, brined, while Pljevlja Cheese is soft to semihard.