Bel Paese (cheese)

Bel Paese is a semi-soft Italian cheese. The name directly translates to "Beautiful Country," and is inspired by the title of a book written by Antonio Stoppani. It is a commercial product that was first manufactured by Egidio Galbani S.p.A., a company that has been a part of the French group Lactalis since 1996.

History

Bel Paese was first created in the early 20th century by Egidio Galbani, who wanted to create a product that would compete with French and Swiss cheeses. The cheese was named after a book by Antonio Stoppani, which praises the beauty of Italy.

Production

Bel Paese is a semi-soft cheese made from cow's milk. The cheese is produced by adding Rennet and other enzymes to the milk to start the fermentation process. The curd is then cut, heated, and pressed into molds. The cheese is aged for a few weeks to several months, depending on the desired flavor and texture.

Characteristics

Bel Paese has a creamy and light milky aroma. The flavor is mild, with a slight hint of sweetness. The texture is creamy and smooth, with a slight elasticity. The cheese is pale yellow in color, with a thin edible rind. It is typically sold in small rounds, wrapped in a distinctive foil wrapper.

Uses

Bel Paese is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is often used in salads, sandwiches, and pasta dishes. It can also be served as a dessert cheese, paired with fruits and sweet wines.

See also

• List of Italian cheeses
• Egidio Galbani S.p.A.