Table of Contents
Introduction
Are you wondering where you can buy dry cottage cheese in your local area? Many cooks like yourself often seek out this ingredient for traditional recipes such as blintzes, palacinke, and cheese bread. Unfortunately, finding a store that sells dry curd cottage cheese in the Akron area is quite challenging. In this article, we will explore the options available and provide some recommendations for acquiring this sought-after ingredient.
Local Availability
Previously, Dean’s Dairy from Sharpsville, Pa., used to carry dry curd cottage cheese and could be special-ordered through local Giant Eagle stores. However, they have discontinued this product, leaving a void in the market. The closest place to Akron where you can purchase dry cottage cheese is at Irene Dever’s stand located at the West Side Market in Cleveland. At Dever’s stand, you can find dry cottage cheese priced at $4.50 per pound. If there are closer alternatives, we encourage you to let us know so we can share the information with others.
West Side Market in Cleveland
Irene Dever’s stand at the West Side Market is a reliable source for dry cottage cheese. However, it’s important to note that the availability of the product may vary. During the summer, the stand may not always stock it due to its perishable nature. To avoid disappointment, we recommend calling ahead at 216-696-4567 to confirm whether dry cottage cheese is currently available. The West Side Market is situated at 1979 W. 25th St., in Cleveland’s Ohio City neighborhood and operates on the following schedule: Monday (7 a.m. to 4 p.m.), Wednesday (7 a.m. to 4 p.m.), Friday (7 a.m. to 6 p.m.), and Saturday (7 a.m. to 6 p.m.).
Online Ordering from Westby Cooperative Creamery
If visiting a physical store is not convenient for you, the Westby Cooperative Creamery, a Wisconsin-based cheese maker, offers the option to ship dry cottage cheese to Ohio. The creamery provides reliable shipping services, with the typical delivery time being two days. However, during hot weather, overnight shipping may be required to maintain the cheese’s quality. To avoid high shipping costs, it’s best to place your order before the temperature rises above comfortable levels. You can order a 4-pound tub of dry cottage cheese from Westby Cooperative Creamery for $11.55 ($2.89 per pound). Standard two-day shipping, which includes a cooler packed with ice, costs approximately $15 for Ohio residents. If you prefer overnight shipping, the cost rises to around $80. To place an order, contact the creamery at 800-492-9282, extension 4.
Storage and Substitutes
Once you receive your dry cottage cheese, it’s important to handle it correctly for long-term storage. The Westby Cooperative Creamery store will freeze the cheese before shipping it to ensure its quality during transit. When the package arrives, the cheese will still be partially frozen, allowing you to break it up and divide it into 1-pound containers. It’s advisable to freeze any portions that won’t be used within a few days. Properly frozen, Westby’s dry cottage cheese can last up to a year in the freezer.
If you’re unable to access dry cottage cheese directly, you can consider some substitutes. Farmers cheese is a viable alternative that’s readily available in many grocery stores. Another option is ricotta, although it is more moist than dry cottage cheese and may not yield the same results in certain recipes. Some individuals have had success by draining regular large-curd cottage cheese in the refrigerator for a day or two to create their own version of dry curd.
Conclusion
While finding dry cottage cheese locally in the Akron area may be difficult, there are alternatives to help you source this ingredient. Irene Dever’s stand at the West Side Market in Cleveland is a reliable option, and the Westby Cooperative Creamery offers online ordering and shipping services. We hope this information has been helpful in your quest for dry cottage cheese. Remember, if you have any other food-related questions, feel free to reach out to Lisa Abraham at 330-996-3737, email her at [email protected], or send mail to 44 E. Exchange St., P.O. Box 640, Akron, OH 44309-0640.
