Cheese Varieties: Tazart
Tazart is primarily produced as a fresh, unaged cheese intended for immediate consumption. It is made exclusively from raw or pasteurized goat’s milk, which gives it a distinctive tangy and slightly earthy flavor. Some producers also offer a lightly salted version, which helps to preserve the cheese for a few additional days.
While most Tazart is sold fresh, a drier, more condensed form is sometimes found in local markets. This aged variant develops a firmer texture and a more pronounced salty taste. Both styles maintain the cheese’s characteristic white color and moist, breakable consistency.
History: Tazart
Tazart cheese has deep roots in the rural highlands of northern Algeria, particularly in Kabylie. For generations, Berber families have produced this cheese as a way to preserve surplus goat milk. Its name is derived from the local Tamazight language, reflecting its indigenous origins.
The cheese remains a symbol of subsistence farming and pastoral life in the region. It is often made in small batches at home using knowledge passed down through families. Despite modernization, many Algerians still value Tazart for its authenticity and cultural significance.
Distinctive Features: Tazart
Tazart is easily recognized by its pure white color and moist, crumbly texture. It has a high moisture content, which contributes to its refreshing quality and slight graininess. The aroma is clean and milky, with hints of citrus and barnyard notes from the goat’s milk.
Its flavor profile is dominated by a bright, lactic acidity and a mild saltiness. The finish is clean and relatively short, making it a light and digestible cheese. Unlike many aged cheeses, Tazert does not develop a rind and is meant to be eaten within days of production.
Production Process: Tazart
The production of Tazart begins with fresh goat’s milk, which is gently warmed to around 30°C. A natural lactic ferments or rennet is added to coagulate the milk over several hours. The resulting curds are cut roughly and ladled into molds without pressing.
The cheese is then drained in woven baskets or perforated containers, which imprint a traditional pattern on its surface. Salting is done by hand, either directly on the surface or by brining for a short period. The entire process is complete within 24 hours, and the cheese is ready to eat immediately.
Traditions
Tazart holds a special place in daily and festive meals throughout Kabylie and other parts of Algeria. It is commonly served for breakfast with homemade bread, honey, or olive oil. During celebrations, it might be incorporated into pastries or served alongside seasonal fruits.
Cheesemaking knowledge is traditionally shared among women in rural communities. It is often produced during spring and summer when goats graze on wild herbs and flowers, influencing the milk’s flavor. Tazart is more than a foodstuff; it is an expression of local identity and resilience.
Local Wine or Beverage Pairings
Tazart pairs wonderfully with crisp, dry white wines such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a local Algerian Blanc de Blancs. The wine’s acidity complements the cheese’s tanginess while cleansing the palate. Light, citrus-forward beers also work well with this fresh cheese.
Non alcoholic pairings include chilled buttermilk or a glass of slightly sweet mint tea. Traditional fermented beverages like leben, a yogurt drink, enhance its creamy and acidic qualities. These pairings highlight the refreshing nature of Tazart cheese.
Suitable Fruit and Vegetables
Fresh figs, watermelon, and apricots bring out the mild sweetness in Tazart cheese. Their juiciness and fragrance contrast nicely with its salty and tangy notes. Ripe tomatoes and cucumbers also pair well, especially in summer salads.
Olives, roasted bell peppers, and fresh herbs like mint and parsley complement its earthy undertones. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of za’atar can elevate simple vegetable and cheese combinations. These additions make for a light yet satisfying meal.
Suitable Meat and Fish
Tazart is rarely served with strong flavored meats but works well with simply grilled chicken or lamb. Its acidity helps cut through the richness of the meat without overpowering it. crumbled over salads or mezze, it adds a creamy and sharp element.
Flaky white fish such as sea bass or cod benefit from a topping of Tazart before baking. The cheese melts slightly and forms a flavorful crust. It also complements dishes featuring merguez sausage, a North African favorite.
Recipe Ideas
Grate 150 grams of aged Tazart over 500 grams of hot, steamed potatoes for a simple yet deeply flavorful side dish. The cheese melts instantly, creating a rich and salty coating that beautifully complements the potatoes’ earthy sweetness. For a quick appetizer, top toasted baguette slices with a slice of tomato, a fresh basil leaf, and a generous shaving of Tazart.
Transform a weeknight pasta dish by stirring 200 grams of finely crumbled Tazart into 400 grams of freshly cooked linguine along with a splash of the starchy pasta water. The cheese forms a creamy, umami-packed sauce that clings perfectly to each strand. You can also incorporate it into a traditional Algerian flatbread, stuffing the dough with a mixture of Tazart, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil before baking until golden and bubbly.
Tazart and Herb Stuffed Tomatoes
This recipe showcases Tazart’s ability to melt gently while retaining its shape. The acidity of the cheese balances the sweetness of ripe tomatoes. It is a classic Algerian side dish often served during Ramadan or family gatherings.
You can prepare this dish ahead of time and bake it just before serving. The herbs enhance the fresh quality of the cheese. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian spread.
- 4 large beef tomatoes
- 200 g Tazart cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- Slice the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the pulp.
- Mix Tazart cheese, herbs, garlic, and half the olive oil in a bowl.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stuff the tomatoes with the mixture.
- Drizzle with remaining oil, place in a baking dish, and bake for 20 minutes.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Algerian Tazart Flatbread
This easy flatbread makes a perfect quick meal or snack. The Tazart cheese melts into the dough, creating pockets of tangy flavor. It is a popular street food in many Algerian towns.
You can customize the toppings with za’atar, olives, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes. The bread is best eaten fresh from the oven. It is an ideal way to introduce Tazart to those unfamiliar with Algerian cheeses.
- 250 g all purpose flour
- 150 g Tazart cheese, crumbled
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 120 ml warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add warm water and olive oil, then knead into a soft dough.
- Divide dough into four balls and roll each into a circle.
- Sprinkle Tazart cheese over half of each circle, then fold and seal.
- Cook on a hot griddle for 3-4 minutes per side until golden.
- Brush with oil and sprinkle sesame seeds before serving.
Similar Cheeses and Local Alternatives
Tazart shares similarities with other fresh goat cheeses like French Chèvre Frais or Greek Katiki Domokou. These cheeses also emphasize a bright, acidic profile and a moist, spreadable texture. Unlike some European variants, Tazart is typically unsalted or lightly salted, letting the milk’s natural flavors dominate.
Within Algeria, one might also enjoy Jben, another fresh white cheese often made from cow’s or sheep’s milk. While Jben is similarly fresh and mild, it usually has a softer, more yogurt-like consistency. Both cheeses play important roles in Maghrebi culinary traditions, often appearing in home cooking and festive tables alike.
Tazart cheese: Questions and answers
What are recommended pairings for Tazart cheese?
Tazart cheese pairs excellently with crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or dry Algerian Blanc de Blancs. It also goes well with fresh fruits such as figs, apricots, and watermelon, or with vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers. For a traditional touch, serve Tazart cheese with homemade bread, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil.
What are good substitutes for Tazart cheese?
Fresh goat cheeses like French Chèvre Frais or Greek Katiki Domokou can substitute for Tazart cheese. Look for varieties that are tangy, moist, and crumbly to mimic its texture and flavor. Within North African cuisine, Jben is a similar fresh cheese that works well in most recipes calling for Tazart cheese.
Is Tazart cheese safe to eat if made from raw milk?
Tazart cheese made from raw milk should be consumed with caution, especially by pregnant women, children, and those with weakened immune systems. Always purchase from reputable sources that follow strict hygiene standards. If unsure, opt for pasteurized versions of Tazart cheese to minimize health risks.
What is the shelf life of Tazart cheese?
Tazart cheese is best consumed within 3 to 5 days of production due to its fresh, unaged nature. Keep it refrigerated at 2°C to 4°C and check for any off smells or discoloration before use. Once opened, use it quickly as its high moisture content makes it perishable.
Where can I buy authentic Tazart cheese?
Look for Tazart cheese at specialty cheese shops, North African markets, or online retailers that focus on artisanal products. In Algeria, it is commonly found in local markets, especially in the Kabylie region. Always check that the cheese is fresh and properly refrigerated when purchasing.
What is the proper way to cut Tazart cheese?
Since Tazart cheese is moist and crumbly, use a soft cheese knife or a flat spatula to handle it gently. For serving, you can break it into rough chunks with your hands or a knife rather than slicing it neatly. Avoid pressing down too hard to prevent it from becoming pasty.
How is Tazart cheese traditionally eaten?
Tazart cheese is often enjoyed fresh with crusty bread, honey, or olive oil for breakfast. It is commonly crumbled over salads or served alongside ripe fruits like figs and watermelon. In Algerian cuisine, it might be baked into pastries or stuffed vegetables for festive meals.
Does Tazart cheese need to be refrigerated?
Yes, Tazart cheese must be refrigerated at all times due to its fresh, high-moisture nature. Store it between 2°C and 4°C to prevent spoilage and maintain its crumbly texture. Never leave Tazart cheese at room temperature for more than two hours to ensure food safety.
What is the best way to store Tazart cheese?
Keep Tazart cheese in its original packaging or wrap it tightly in parchment paper inside an airtight container. Store it in the coldest part of your refrigerator, ideally between 2°C and 4°C, to maintain freshness. Use it within a few days of purchase as it is a fresh cheese with high moisture content.
How should I use Tazart cheese in cooking?
Tazart cheese works wonderfully crumbled over salads or stirred into hot pasta for a creamy, tangy sauce. It can be stuffed into vegetables like tomatoes or baked into flatbreads where it melts gently. Always add it towards the end of cooking to preserve its fresh, acidic character.