Fiore Sardo

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Other names	Pecorino Sardo
Country of origin	Italy
Region, town
Region	Sardinia
Town
Source of milk	Sheep
Pasteurised	No
Pasteurized
Texture	Hard
Fat content

Fiore Sardo is a traditional sheep milk cheese from the island of Sardinia, Italy. It is also known as Pecorino Sardo. This cheese has been granted Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status under European Union law, which ensures that only cheese produced in a specific manner in Sardinia can be labeled as Fiore Sardo.

History

Fiore Sardo has ancient origins, dating back to the Bronze Age. It was traditionally made by shepherds in the Sardinian mountains. The name "Fiore Sardo" translates to "Sardinian flower," which is believed to refer to the flower-shaped molds used in its production.

Production

Fiore Sardo is made from raw sheep's milk, primarily from the Sarda breed. The milk is coagulated using lamb rennet, and the curds are cut and cooked at a low temperature. The cheese is then molded and pressed, followed by a period of dry salting. After salting, the cheese is smoked over an open fire, which imparts a distinctive flavor. The aging process lasts between two to six months, during which the cheese develops a hard texture and a rich, complex flavor.

Characteristics

Fiore Sardo has a hard, natural rind that is typically brownish in color. The interior paste is pale yellow and has a firm, crumbly texture. The flavor is robust and slightly tangy, with smoky and nutty undertones. The cheese is often used in Sardinian cuisine, grated over pasta dishes or served as a table cheese.

Culinary Uses

Fiore Sardo is versatile in the kitchen. It can be grated over pasta, used in salads, or enjoyed on its own with bread and wine. It pairs well with robust red wines and is a key ingredient in traditional Sardinian dishes such as malloreddus and culurgiones.

Related Cheeses

Fiore Sardo is part of the larger family of Pecorino cheeses, which are made from sheep's milk. Other notable Pecorino cheeses include Pecorino Romano, Pecorino Toscano, and Pecorino Siciliano.

See Also

• Pecorino
• Sardinian cuisine
• Protected Designation of Origin
• Sheep milk cheese