![What is quark?](https://metrouk2.files.wordpress.com/2018/02/gettyimages-85627904.jpg?w=748&h=748&crop=1)
Dieters – particularly those on Slimming World – will know all about Quark.
It’s the low-fat dairy product that you can use to replace all-sorts, from soured cream to cream cheese.
Making stuff creamy is one of the harder parts of being on a low-fat diet, but Quark is one of those miracle ingredients helping people to resist the pull of calorie laden dairy products.
Most supermarkets now sell own-brand and branded Quark, and sales shot up 40% in 2014.
But do you know what it actually is?
![What is quark?](https://metrouk2.files.wordpress.com/2018/02/gettyimages-900641598.jpg?w=620&h=413&crop=1)
Quark is technically a cheese.
It looks a little bit like yoghurt, and has a creamy and thick texture.
It’s made in a similar way to cheese, where milk is soured using lactic acid to make it separate.
The solid curds are separated from the liquid whey to create Quark. The curds are drained and, et voila, you have your finished product.
Most Quark we buy in the UK is made from skimmed milk, which means it has a lower fat content than cream. They also usually have no sugar or salt added (because this isn’t necessary to make it) so it’s healthier than some other cheeses.
It also has a high protein content.
![What is quark?](https://metrouk2.files.wordpress.com/2018/02/gettyimages-sb10066073hz-001.jpg?w=620&h=444&crop=1)
It’s suitable for vegetarians, too, as Quark doesn’t contain rennet.
In Central Europe – particular in Germany – it’s nothing new and is added to many different recipes.
It can be used in sweet or savoury dishes, and makes a lovely cheesecake.
You can also make a bread out of only Quark and flour, although this will have a shorter shelf-life than standard bread.
More: Food
Since it can be whipped up, you can use it to make a mousse, and Slimming World fans are known to add it to curries and pasta dishes instead of using milk or cream.
Quark is easily bought from most supermarkets these days, and is a great alternative for those looking to cut down on calories.
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