Fromage frais

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Fromage frais (also known as fromage blanc or maquée) is a dairy product, originating from Belgium and north of France. The name literally means 'fresh cheese' (with fromage blanc meaning 'white cheese').

It is made in a similar fashion to cheese, with rennet and a starter culture being added to milk. However, unlike cheese, the curds are not allowed to solidify, but are stirred, giving fromage frais a texture similar to that of yogurt.

Pure fromage frais is virtually fat free, but cream is frequently added to improve the flavor, which also increases the fat content, frequently up to as high as 8 percent.

Fromage frais can be served either as a dessert similar to yogurt, frequently with added fruit, or used in savory dishes.