Aragatsyan panir


Aragatsyan panir is a traditional Armenian cheese made from sheep's milk or a mixture of sheep's milk with cow's or goat's milk.

Characteristics

Aragatsyan panir is made from high-quality sheep's milk. It is distinguished by a mild nutty flavor and a relatively soft texture for a sheep's cheese. The fat content of Aragatsyan panir should be at least 50%.

Production and name

In Soviet Armenia, the most valued Aragatsyan panir was produced at factories in the Talin district. The cheese was first made at the "Aragats" state farm, from which it takes its name.

Classification

Aragatsyan panir belongs to the group of specially prepared sheep's cheeses made from sheep's milk. This group also includes Southern sheep cheese and Moldovan smoked cheese. These cheeses are characterized by a fat content of 40–55%, moderate sharpness, and a distinctive sheep's milk flavor. They are less salty compared to brined cheeses, with salt content not exceeding 3.5%. Unlike brined cheeses, they do not mature in brine and develop a rind.