Camembert

Camembert de Normandie (AOP) 11

camembert

Isovaleric acid structure

Butandion - Butanedione

Oct-1-en-3-one

Camembert is a soft, creamy, surface-ripened cow's milk cheese that originated in the late 18th century in Normandy, France. It is named after the village of Camembert, where it was first created. Camembert is one of the most famous French cheeses and is known for its delicate, earthy flavor and creamy texture.

History

The creation of Camembert cheese is attributed to Marie Harel, a farmer from Normandy, who is said to have invented it in 1791 with the advice of a priest from Brie, thus linking Camembert to the long tradition of French cheese-making. The cheese quickly gained popularity, and its production spread throughout Normandy. By the 19th century, Camembert had become a staple of French cuisine and began to be exported internationally.

Production

Camembert is made from unpasteurized cow's milk, although many modern versions use pasteurized milk to meet health standards of various countries. The milk is coagulated with rennet, and the resulting curd is cut, stirred, and heated slightly before being transferred to molds. The cheese is then salted and left to ripen for at least three weeks. During this time, it is covered with a white mold, Penicillium camemberti, which gives Camembert its characteristic rind and contributes to its flavor profile.

Characteristics

A typical Camembert cheese is round, about 250 grams in weight, and has a fat content of at least 45%. Its rind is bloomy and edible, covered in a white mold. The interior of the cheese is soft, creamy, and pale yellow in color, with a slightly runny texture at room temperature. Camembert has a rich, buttery flavor with hints of mushrooms and earthy undertones.

Serving and Consumption

Camembert is often served at room temperature to enhance its flavor and texture. It can be spread on bread or crackers and is commonly paired with fruits such as apples or pears, nuts, and a variety of wines, particularly reds from Bordeaux or whites from the Loire Valley. Camembert is also a popular ingredient in various culinary dishes, including baked Camembert and Camembert in puff pastry.

Cultural Significance

Camembert holds a significant place in French culture and cuisine. It is often associated with the concept of terroir, the set of all environmental factors that affect a crop's phenotype, including unique environment contexts, farming practices, and a crop's specific growth habitat. The cheese has also been the subject of various artistic and literary works, symbolizing French heritage and gastronomy.

Regulation

In France, the name "Camembert de Normandie" is protected by an Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC), ensuring that only cheese produced using traditional methods and within the designated geographic area can be sold under this name. This designation aims to preserve the authenticity and quality of Camembert.

See Also

• Cheese
• French cuisine
• Normandy
• Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée