Where did cottage cheese come from?

The origins of cottage cheese are a bit murky, with several cultures claiming credit! Here's a breakdown of what we know:

* Ancient Roots: Evidence suggests cheesemaking existed in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia as early as 4000 BC. While the exact origins of cottage cheese are unknown, it likely developed from the simple process of separating curds from whey, a common practice in those times.

* Medieval Europe: Cottage cheese is thought to have become popular in Europe during the Middle Ages, particularly in rural areas. This is likely due to its simplicity to make using just milk and minimal equipment.

* The "Cottage" Connection: The name "cottage cheese" likely originated from the fact that it was traditionally made in the cottages of rural families, often as a way to use up excess milk.

* Around the World: While the exact origin remains a mystery, cottage cheese is enjoyed worldwide and has a diverse history across different cultures.

In short, cottage cheese likely emerged as a simple way to use milk in ancient times and became popular in medieval Europe due to its accessibility and versatility.