Spanish Cheese
Spain is a country that is primarily associated with flamenco, corrida and delicious paella. However, for true gourmets, one of the country's greatest treasures is cheese. Spanish cheeses are a true feast for the palate, not to be missed during your culinary travels. Let's take a closer look at some of them.
Queso Manchego: King of Spanish cheeses
Spain's most famous cheese is undoubtedly Queso Manchego. Originating from the La Mancha region, this sheep's milk cheese has gained international fame for its unique flavor. Queso Manchego is aged from several months to as long as two years, which gives it a varied texture and flavor - from delicate and buttery to intense and tangy. Its rind is characteristically yellow with distinctive grooves, which are formed in traditional braided molds.
Cabrales: the Pride of Asturias
Another unique Spanish cheese is Cabrales, which comes from the Asturias region. It is a blue cheese made from cow's, goat's and sheep's milk. It is ripened in natural caves in the Picos de Europa mountains, which gives it a specific, strong flavor and aroma. Cabrales is intense and tangy, perfect for tasting accompanied by a good red wine.
Idiaz谩bal: Basque Treasure
From northern Spain, specifically the Basque Country and Navarre, comes Idiaz谩bal cheese. Made from the milk of Latxa and Carranzana sheep, this cheese is characterized by its smoky flavor, which it acquires while ripening over a wood fire. Idiaz谩bal has a firm texture and is slightly tangy, often served with honey or fruit.
Mah贸n: Pearl of the Balearic Islands
Mah贸n cheese comes from the island of Menorca in the Balearic Islands. It is a cow's cheese that can be found in both fresh and aged versions. Fresh Mah贸n is soft, creamy and mildly salty, while the aged version is harder, more tangy and full of flavor. Mah贸n is often used in cooking, both for cooking and as a snack.
Tetilla: A Galician Classic
Tetilla cheese, a native of Galicia, is easily recognized for its distinctive shape resembling a woman's breast. Made from cow's milk, Tetilla is soft, creamy and mild in flavor. It is ideal for cold consumption or as an accompaniment to a variety of dishes.
Spanish cheeses are a wealth of flavors, aromas and traditions. Each region of Spain has its own unique specialties worth discovering and tasting. From the intense Cabrales to the delicate Tetilla, there is something for every cheese lover. Therefore, while in Spain, don't forget to try these unique delicacies - it's a real feast for the senses!
