If the word “quark” conjures up memories of physics lessons, rest assured: a) I’m not qualified to write about physics; and b) it’s not the kind of quark we’re talking about. This quark is a cheese and yogurt treat that’s becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. It’s delicious and packed with nutritional value. Learn more about the quark and how it could (and should) become your new favorite snack.
What is a quark?
Quark is a soft, creamy European cheese that Germans eat with relish. It has a mild flavor and is said to taste a bit like sour cream and cream cheese. Others claim that with its flavor and texture, cottage cheese resembles a mixture of yogurt and cottage cheese. The gut-healthy food website Cultures for Health states that it is “made by fermenting a mixture of cheese and yogurt cultures in hot milk to form curds. After that, the whey (liquid) is expelled.
How do you eat quark?
As a soft cheese with the texture of yogurt pudding, cottage cheese can be eaten in many ways. Flavor-wise, it’s not as tart or tangy as Greek yogurt. This sweetness makes it versatile – it can be sweet or savory. “In Northern Europe, it is common to spread cottage cheese on toast in the morning, as one would with butter,” explains chef Peter Sandroni. Prevention. He adds that you can use it in recipes that call for soft, creamy cheese like ricotta. Conversely, it can be mixed with fruit or eaten on its own as a quick and healthy breakfast. The only limit to how you eat cottage cheese is your imagination.
Where does the quark come from?
There are many theories about the origins of the quark. Many food writers and historians believe it was invented in the 1920s; some, however, believe it was invented earlier, but did not become popular until the 1920s. Several sources claim quark dates back to 14th century Europe; while still others say it is much older and cite the Roman historian Tacitus, who wrote about it in AD 98, as proof. Because quark bears similarities to unaged white cheeses found in other cultures, such as paneer and queso blanco, it is difficult to trace its exact roots. Whatever its origin, it is very popular: it even has its own worldwide celebration every year. January 19 is World Quark Day, established by a mysterious enthusiast who poses as the Quark Queen. She has also published The Ultimate Quark Guide and Cookbook (Purchased on Amazon, $14.49).
What are the health benefits of quark?
Now that you know what it is and how to eat it, the question is: why should do you eat it? Besides being creamy and delicious, quark has tons of benefits for your body. Learn more about what makes this original (quark-y?) cheese worth its nutritional weight in gold.
It’s user-friendly (in more ways than one!): Like Greek yogurt, Quark is packed with live cultures and gut-friendly probiotics. Probiotics help regulate healthy bacteria in your gut, aiding digestion and boosting immunity. Its live cultures aren’t its only tummy-friendly quality: it also contains less lactic acid than Greek yogurt and is considered a low-FODMAP food, which means it’s easier on sufferers. stomach problems and lactose intolerance.
It is packed with protein: If you’re looking to build muscle or just eat something that will fill you up for a while, look no further. Quark is packed with protein — almost double the amount of protein found in Greek yogurt, according to Graham’s Family Dairy.
It is low in salt and fat: Quark is an excellent substitute for some otherwise fatty and salty cheeses. Graham’s Family Dairy notes that “cottage cheese can in some cases contain up to 40% fat, [but] is naturally fat-free,” so if you shop wisely, this can be a snack that helps control your cholesterol levels. It also contains less salt than similar softies like cottage cheese and ricotta, making it a healthy substitute if you’re watching your sodium intake.
It is full of essential vitamins: This delicious and versatile treat is packed with essential vitamins. It contains vitamin A, which supports healthy vision and the immune system, and vitamin B12, which supports the nervous system. Additionally, the whole quark is rich in calcium and vitamin K, which is important for heart health, bone health, and blood clotting.
The only bad thing about the quark is that it’s not as widely available in the United States as its better-known peers. Well + Good notes that it can be found at select grocery chains like Kroger, Sam’s Club, and Costco. If you can’t find it, you can try to make it yourself.
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