Chechil facts for kids
Chechil (Armenian: չեչիլ, Georgian: ჩეჩილი) is a special kind of string cheese from Armenia. It is also very popular in Georgia. This cheese looks a bit like mozzarella and is made into long, thick strings. These strings are often rolled into a figure eight shape or braided into ropes. Chechil is known for being salty, very chewy, and sometimes has a smoky flavor. It is made from pasteurized cow's milk and is low in fat.
Chechil is one of the cheeses made in the Armenian Highlands. It is sometimes called husats or tel. This cheese is 'kneaded' or 'pulled'. This means cheese makers stretch it very thin to give it a unique texture. People often describe this texture as being like 'chicken breast'. The cheese is often sold braided in thick ropes.
Contents
How Chechil is Made
To make Chechil, cheese curds are first given a hot bath in a liquid called whey. After this, the curds are kneaded and stretched. This process makes the cheese soft and flexible, giving it its famous stringy texture.
Where Chechil is Popular
In many Western countries, Chechil is known as Armenian string cheese. Armenian people who moved to Syria in the early 1900s introduced this cheese there. In Turkey, Chechil is called çeçil or tel peyniri. It is very popular, especially in the cities of Erzurum and Ardahan.
Chechil is also very popular in Russia, where it is often enjoyed as a snack. It is also well-known in Central Asia and Eastern Europe. In the USA, Chechil is produced and sold under the same name. In the UK, a type of Chechil called Meskhuri Chechili has a special status. It is a "protected geographical indication" due to an agreement between the UK and Georgian governments. This means only Chechil made in a specific way in a certain area can use that name.
Storing and Eating Chechil
Chechil is usually matured in a salty water solution called brine. It is often smoked before people eat it. Sometimes, Chechil is mixed with farmer cheese or other hard cheeses. It can be stored in jars or special bags made from wine skins.
What's in Chechil?
Chechil has a low fat content, which makes it a popular choice for people looking for a lighter snack.
Because it has a low fat content, Chechil is often considered a healthy food option.
See also
- In Spanish: Chechil para niños
