Fourme d'Ambert

Fourme d'Ambert is a semi-hard French blue cheese from the regions of Auvergne, France. One of France's oldest cheeses, it dates back to the Roman times and is named after the town of Ambert in the region of Auvergne.

History

The history of Fourme d'Ambert dates back to the era of the Roman Empire. It was traditionally made by the farmers in the region of Auvergne, who would each contribute milk to create the cheese. The cheese was originally made in the shape of a cylinder, or "fourme" in French, which is how it got its name.

Production

Fourme d'Ambert is made from cow's milk, and the production process involves several steps. The milk is first pasteurized and then inoculated with Penicillium roqueforti, a type of mold that gives the cheese its characteristic blue veins. The cheese is then aged for a minimum of 28 days, during which it develops its unique flavor and texture.

Characteristics

Fourme d'Ambert is a semi-hard cheese with a distinct, creamy texture. It has a cylindrical shape and a natural, edible rind. The cheese is known for its mild and slightly sweet flavor, which is less salty and sharp compared to other blue cheeses. It has a characteristic blue veining, which is a result of the Penicillium roqueforti mold.

Uses

Fourme d'Ambert is often used in cooking, as it melts well and adds a rich, creamy flavor to dishes. It is also commonly served on cheese boards, paired with fruits and nuts, or used in salads and sandwiches.

See also

• List of French cheeses
• Blue cheese
• Auvergne (region)