Ingredient substitute

What can you use instead of white cheese (beyaz peynir)?

Feta cheese, Ricotta salata and Queso fresco are the easiest swaps. Below: 4 options with the right amount to use, what changes in the dish and which diets they suit.

The quick answer

Feta cheese. Use the same amount. Everyday stand-in for beyaz peynir; usually saltier and more crumbly.

Adjust: Rinse or soak 10 minutes in cold water to reduce salt.

Feta cheese
Drop-in swap

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Everyday stand-in for beyaz peynir; usually saltier and more crumbly.

Flavor
Tangy, salty.

Texture
Crumbly.

Moisture
Slightly lower.

Adjust
Rinse or soak 10 minutes in cold water to reduce salt.

Best for
Pide, Börek, Breakfast spread, Salads
Ricotta salata
Small adjustment

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Firm, milder and less tangy.

Flavor
Milky, salty.

Texture
Firm, crumbly.

Moisture
Lower.

Adjust
Add a pinch of lemon zest.

Best for
Börek filling, Salads
Queso fresco
Small adjustment

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Milder and softer; add salt.

Flavor
Mild, fresh.

Texture
Soft, crumbly.

Moisture
Higher.

Adjust
Salt the filling lightly.

Best for
Börek filling, Gözleme
Goat cheese
Changes flavor or texture

Ratio 3/4 : 1 (ratio 3/4 : 1)

Creamier and tangier.

Flavor
Tangy, grassy.

Texture
Creamy.

Moisture
Higher.

Adjust
Use slightly less.

Best for
Breakfast, Spreads