Calcagno (cheese)

Calcagno is a type of cheese originating from Italy. It is a hard, mature cheese made from sheep's milk. The cheese is named after the Italian word for "lime", due to its distinctive tangy flavor.

History

Calcagno cheese has a long history in Italy, with records of its production dating back to the Roman Empire. It was traditionally made by shepherds in the mountainous regions of Sardinia and Sicily, who would age the cheese in natural caves.

Production

The production of Calcagno cheese begins with the collection of sheep's milk. The milk is then heated and rennet is added to cause coagulation. The curds are cut, drained, and pressed into molds. The cheese is then aged for a minimum of six months, during which it develops its characteristic flavor and texture.

Characteristics

Calcagno cheese is known for its hard, crumbly texture and tangy, slightly salty flavor. It has a natural, edible rind that is typically golden in color. The cheese itself is pale yellow. It is often used in cooking, particularly in traditional Italian dishes such as pasta and risotto. It can also be enjoyed on its own, or with wine and bread.

See also

• List of Italian cheeses
• List of sheep milk cheeses

References

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