Let’s start from the beginning – What is Żartyca? It is simply a milk drink arising as a by -product when making oscypek from sheep’s milk.
When the cheese is made of it, a whey is separated from it – it becomes a heat, but not so right away. The whey should first be heated in a copper cauldron and thoroughly mixed so that it does not stick to the bottom. When it starts to brew, mixing is interrupted and watched as the product behaves. When the top layer begins to crack, it is a sign that the dish must be removed from the heat. The layer of cheese is collected with a small amount of whey, grooved, and then poured into a dish (pucyra), where the Żętyca is mowing and takes on a properly sour taste.
Traditionally, the fir is administered chilled. Its taste is sour, slightly salty, but also clearly milk.
Although seemingly it is simply a regional curiosity to try in the mountains, the inhabitants of these areas know perfectly well that Drinking this milk drink is an effective way to strengthen the body.
It can be safely stated that Żętyca is a bomb of vitamins and minerals, very beneficial to health. It was not without reason that in the 20th century it was used in some spas as a medicinal product, especially useful as support of tuberculosis respiratory system.
The drink created as a by -product of the oscypków product is a rich source of white and exogenous amino acids, which are necessary for the proper functioning of the whole body. There is also lactoferrin in Żętyca – it is responsible for the good work of the immune system. This delicacy also contains B vitamins and microelements such as phosphorus, calcium and iodine. Thanks to this, drinking Żętycs can contribute to bone and teeth health, and also supports the proper operation of the thyroid gland.
An interesting fact is that in Podhale tradition it was also attributed to aphrodisiac -like properties.
All right, But how to use Żętyca? Certainly, many people who hear about this drink for the first time are wondering if it is only suitable for drinking. Indeed, this is the first thought – the chilled Żętyca tastes delicious on hot days. However, this is not the only option.
Ferry is also used as a pork or mutton marinade. Such meat after baking will be delicious – very fragile and full of delicacy. You can also easily add Żętyca to potatoes, stews or soups. An interesting proposition is also the use of Żętyca for pancakes and cakes instead of buttermilk or kefir.
Sources: Schroniskobukowina.pl, Terazpoczy.pl
