Schmier Kase. Olive Barks. Recipe

Schmier Kase, also known as smearcase or cottage cheese, is a traditional German cheese spread that is popular in the Pennsylvania Dutch community. It is made by scalding sour milk until it becomes crumbly, then separating the whey from the curd. The curd is mashed fine, salted to taste, and mixed with rich sour cream to create a creamy and flavorful cheese spread.

The history of Schmier Kase dates back to the early German settlers who brought their culinary traditions to the United States. These settlers settled in Pennsylvania, where they developed a distinct culture known as the Pennsylvania Dutch. Schmier Kase quickly became a staple in their cuisine and has remained popular to this day.

Fun fact: The term "schmier" in Schmier Kase comes from the German word "schmieren," which means to spread. This indicates that the cheese is meant to be eaten as a spread or a topping.

Now, let's dive into the recipe for Olive Barks, a delicious dish that incorporates Schmier Kase as a key ingredient.

Olive Barks Recipe:

Ingredients:
- 1 gallon of sour milk
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 pint of rich sour cream
- 1 cup of chopped olives
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Crackers or bread for serving

Instructions:
1. Start by scalding the sour milk in a large pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Scalding is the process of heating milk just below boiling point, until it starts to curdle or form small curds.

2. Once the milk reaches the crumbly stage, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly. This is an important step as it allows the curds to separate from the whey.

3. Place a fine-mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth or a clean dish towel over a large bowl. Pour the curdled milk into the strainer, allowing the whey to drain away. Gently press the curds to remove excess liquid.

4. Transfer the drained curds to a mixing bowl and mash them with a fork or a potato masher until they reach a fine consistency.

5. Add salt to taste, starting with a teaspoon and adjusting according to your preferences. Remember that the sour cream and olives will also add some saltiness to the spread.

6. Add the rich sour cream to the mashed curds and mix thoroughly until well combined. The sour cream will add creaminess and tang to the cheese spread.

7. Stir in the chopped olives, dried oregano, garlic powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if desired). These additional ingredients will enhance the flavor of the Schmier Kase and give it a unique twist.

8. Once all the ingredients are well mixed, transfer the Olive Barks to a serving container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.

9. Serve the Olive Barks with crackers or bread of your choice. It makes a fantastic spread for sandwiches, a topping for bruschetta, or a dip for vegetable sticks.

Fun fact: The addition of olives, oregano, and garlic in this recipe brings a Mediterranean twist to the traditional Schmier Kase, creating a delicious fusion of flavors.

Similar dishes to Schmier Kase include other cottage cheese spreads like cream cheese and cheddar cheese spreads. These spreads are versatile and can be used in various recipes, from sandwich fillings to party dips. Additionally, in some regions, Schmier Kase is also enjoyed plain or with a sprinkling of fresh herbs.

In conclusion, Olive Barks is a unique and flavorful dish that showcases the deliciousness of Schmier Kase. This recipe combines the creamy and tangy qualities of the cheese spread with the briny and herbal notes of olives, making it a delightful choice for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a spread or a dip, Olive Barks is sure to impress your guests with its delicious taste and rich history.