Region: Macedonia, Thrace, Thessalia, Peloponissos, Ionian Islands, Aegean islands, Crete Island and Epirus
Kind: hard, whey
Fat: 30%
Calcium: 318 mg/100g
Rind: natural
Texture: crumbly
Color: white
Flavor: salty, tangy
Aroma: strong
Synonyms: Anthotyro, Anthotyro Fresco
Alternative Spellings: Antotiro, Anthotiro
Description: Anthotyros also known as Anthotiro is a traditional Greek cheese prepared by adding whey in sheep or goat's milk or sometimes a mixture of these kinds of milk. Regions of Macedonia, Thrace, Thessalia, Peloponissos, Ionian Islands, Aegean Islands, Crete Island and Epirus have been producing this cheese for centuries. The name Anthotyros literally translated means 'flower cheese', comes from the wafting aromas of wild herbs. Dry Anthotyros or Anthotyro Xero is a matured cheese available in a truncated cone or ball shape. If Anthotyros is left to age, thick salt is usually added to cover the exterior. Dry Anthotyros has a hard texture, salty taste and savoury flavor. It has a very powerful smell reminiscent of sherry. When aged, it is an excellent grating cheese and can be used to augment the taste of pasta, spaghetti or salads. There's a fresh version of Anthotyros called Anthotyro Fresco (Fresh Anthotyro).