A Guide to Eastern European Cheeses: Tvorog, Brynza & More

Eastern European cheeses are unlike anything in typical American supermarkets. Made using centuries-old traditions, they have unique textures and culinary uses.

At Kalinka Euro Market, we carry authentic imported cheeses that connect customers to their heritage—or introduce newcomers to incredible flavors.

Tvorog (Творог) — Russian Farmer's Cheese

Tvorog is the cornerstone of Eastern European dairy. It's a fresh, white curd cheese—drier than cottage cheese but softer than ricotta.

Nutrition per 100g:

• 17g protein
• 121 calories
• Rich in calcium and B vitamins
• Low carbs (great for keto)

How to Use Tvorog

Sweet dishes:

• Syrniki — Pan-fried cheese pancakes for breakfast
• Zapekanka — Baked cheese casserole with raisins
• Pashka — Traditional Easter dessert

Savory uses:

• Filling for vareniki (Ukrainian dumplings)
• Mixed with fresh herbs as a spread
• Added to salads for protein

Quick idea: Top fresh tvorog with honey and berries for a 2-minute healthy breakfast.

Brynza (Брынза) — Tangy Sheep's Cheese

White, crumbly cheese traditionally made from sheep's milk. Saltier and tangier than feta with a distinctive sharp flavor.

Origins: Made in the Carpathian Mountains for centuries, where shepherds preserved milk during long grazing seasons.

How to use:

• Crumbled over tomato-cucumber salads
• Mixed into scrambled eggs
• On dark rye bread with butter
• In savory pastries

Smetana (Сметана) — Russian Sour Cream

Technically cultured cream, smetana is essential to Eastern European cooking. It's richer and more complex than American sour cream.

Fat content: 15-40% (vs. American sour cream at 10-14%)

Uses:

• Topping for pelmeni, vareniki, borscht
• Base for sauces and gravies
• Mixed into dough for tender baked goods
• Fresh with berries

Kefir — Probiotic Powerhouse

Fermented milk drink packed with probiotics. Tangy, slightly fizzy, and pourable.

Benefits:

• More probiotic strains than yogurt
• Easier to digest for lactose-sensitive people
• High in protein, calcium, B vitamins

How to enjoy: Drink plain, blend in smoothies, or use for overnight oats.

Ryazhenka — Baked Fermented Milk

Made by baking milk until it caramelizes, then fermenting. The result is creamy with beautiful tan color.

Flavor: Hints of caramel and toasted milk with fermented tanginess.

Tips for Buying European Dairy

1. Check freshness dates — Fresh cheeses like tvorog should be consumed within a week
2. Ask about fat content — Higher fat = richer flavor
3. Start small — Try before committing to larger amounts

Where to Find Authentic European Cheeses

Regular grocery stores rarely carry these products.

At Kalinka Euro Market, we stock fresh tvorog, imported brynza, authentic smetana, and a variety of European dairy products. Our staff can help you choose and share family recipes.

Visit us: 📍 813 W Main St UNIT 112, Battle Ground, WA 98604 📞 (360) 666-6919 🕐 Open daily 10am–8pm