Definition & Meaning of "shanklish"

What is "shanklish"?

Shanklish is a traditional Middle Eastern cheese that is made from cow or sheep milk that is formed into small balls and then aged in a mixture of salt and spices such as thyme, sumac, and red pepper. The aging process gives the cheese a tangy and pungent flavor that is often described as similar to blue cheese. Shanklish can be eaten on its own or used as a topping for salads, sandwiches, or flatbreads. Shanklish is often used as a substitute for feta or other cheeses in Mediterranean dishes and can be found in many specialty food stores and Middle Eastern markets around the world.