
Ingredient
Cheese, juustoleipa
Finnish Delight: Juustoleipa - The Grilled Cheese of Scandinavia
Juustoleipa is a semi-hard cheese made from cow's milk. It has a pale yellow color and a distinctive pattern on the rind from the cheese molds used during production. The cheese has a dense and slightly rubbery texture, similar to halloumi, and a mild, buttery flavor with a hint of sweetness. When heated, it develops a deliciously crispy crust while maintaining its soft and chewy interior.
Origins and history
Juustoleipa has its origins in Finland, where it has been made for centuries. It is believed to have been introduced by the Swedish settlers in the region. Traditionally, juustoleipa was made during the summer months when cows grazed on fresh grass, resulting in a richer and more flavorful cheese. It was an important part of Finnish cuisine and was often enjoyed as a snack or dessert.
Nutritional information
Juustoleipa is a good source of protein and calcium. It is also relatively low in fat and carbohydrates. A 1-ounce (28g) serving of juustoleipa provides approximately 80 calories, 6g of protein, and 5g of fat.
Allergens
Juustoleipa contains milk and is not suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies.
How to select
When selecting juustoleipa, look for a cheese with a firm texture and a pale yellow color. Avoid cheeses with any signs of mold or discoloration. Freshness is key, so choose a cheese with a recent production date or one that has been vacuum-sealed for longer shelf life.
Storage recommendations
To maintain the freshness and quality of juustoleipa, store it in the refrigerator in its original packaging or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It can be kept for up to a month, but it is best enjoyed within a week of purchase.
How to produce
Juustoleipa can be produced at home by heating milk, adding rennet to coagulate it, and then pressing the curds to remove excess whey. The curds are then shaped into flat rounds and baked or grilled until they develop a golden crust.
Preparation tips
Juustoleipa is best enjoyed grilled or fried. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and cook the cheese for a few minutes on each side until it develops a golden crust. Serve it warm as a standalone snack or pair it with lingonberry jam for a traditional Finnish treat. Juustoleipa can also be used in salads, sandwiches, or melted on top of burgers.
Culinary uses
Juustoleipa is commonly enjoyed grilled or fried as a standalone snack or dessert in Finland. It can also be used in salads, sandwiches, or melted on top of burgers for added flavor and texture.
Availability
Juustoleipa is primarily available in Finland and other Scandinavian countries. It can also be found in specialty cheese shops or international grocery stores in other parts of the world.
More ingredients from this category » Browse all

Cheese, urda
The Creamy Delight: Exploring the World of Urda Cheese

Skyr
The Icelandic Superfood

Cheese, boilie
Savory Delight: Boilie Cheese

Ricotta
Velvety Italian Curds

Cottage cheese
Creamy Curds: Exploring the Delights of Cottage Cheese

Cheese, triple creme
Decadent Delights: Exploring Triple Creme Cheese

Cheese curd
Squeaky Cheese Delight

Cheese, chevre frais
Fresh and Tangy Goat's Cheese

Cream cheese
Velvety Delight: Exploring the World of Cream Cheese

Clotted cream
The Creamy Indulgence

Quark
Creamy Delight: Unveiling the Versatility of Quark

Mascarpone
The Creamy Indulgence: Mascarpone
Recipes using Cheese, juustoleipa » Browse all

Creamy Butter Spread
Velvety Czech Butter Delight

Swedish Poached Salmon with Dill Sauce
Nordic Delight: Tender Poached Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce

Homemade Bulgarian Yogurt Soup
Creamy Delight: Bulgarian Yogurt Soup with a Twist

Swedish Shrimp Toast with Dill and Lemon
Scandinavian Delight: Zesty Shrimp Toast with a Twist

Pacific Northwest-inspired Shaaria with Wild Salmon and Seasonal Vegetables
Wild Salmon Harvest Shaaria: A Taste of the Pacific Northwest

Estonian-inspired Apple and Beetroot Salad
Beetroot and Apple Delight: A Vibrant Estonian Salad

Silesian-style Sticky Rice in Bamboo
Bamboo Delight: Silesian-inspired Sticky Rice

Belarusian-style Potato Dumplings (Kartoflanyya Kletski)
Hearty Belarusian Potato Dumplings: A Taste of Comfort

Icelandic-Inspired Porchetta with Herbed Skyr Sauce
Nordic Twist on Italian Classic: Icelandic Porchetta with Skyr Sauce

Danish Crispy Fish Fillet with Remoulade Sauce
Crispy Delights: Danish Fish Fillet with Tangy Remoulade Sauce

Macedonian-Style Meatball Soup
Savory Macedonian Meatball Delight

Vegetarian Frøsnapper
Crispy Seed-Crusted Vegetarian Delight