description Sirene Overview
Sirene is a white, brined cheese associated with Bulgarian cuisine and traditionally made from sheep's milk, cow's milk, or a mixture of milks. It has a crumbly to semi-firm texture and a salty, tangy flavor. Sirene is used in Bulgarian salads, filled pastries, baked dishes, and especially shopska salad, where it is commonly crumbled over tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and onions.
help Sirene FAQ
What milk is used to make Bulgarian sirene?
Traditional sirene is commonly made from sheep's milk, cow's milk, or a mixture of the two. The Bulgarian protected designation also allows goat's milk, buffalo milk, or approved mixtures. [Bulgarian Ministry of Agriculture](https://www.mzh.government.bg/en/press-center/news/bulgarian-white-brined-cheese-has-become-second-da/)
Is sirene the same cheese as Greek feta?
They are both white brined cheeses, but sirene is associated with Bulgaria while feta is the protected Greek name. Bulgarian white brined cheese received EU protected designation status in 2023. [Bulgarian Ministry of Agriculture](https://www.mzh.government.bg/en/press-center/news/bulgarian-white-brined-cheese-has-become-second-da/)
What does sirene taste and feel like?
Sirene is usually salty, tangy, and white, with a crumbly to semi-firm texture. Brining and the type of milk used can change how sharp or creamy a particular version tastes.
How is sirene used in Bulgarian cooking?
It is crumbled into shopska salad and used in banitsa and mish-mash. Bulgarian white brined cheese is also used in baked dishes because it becomes more elastic when heated. [EU product description](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:52023XC0413%2804%29)
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