Pélardon

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Pélardon is a French cheese originating from the Languedoc-Roussillon region in the south of France. It is a small, round goat cheese that has been produced in the region for centuries, with historical records dating back to Roman times. Pélardon is made from raw, unpasteurized goat's milk, and its production follows a traditional process that has been passed down through generations.

History

The history of Pélardon dates back over a thousand years, with the first written records mentioning the cheese dating from the Roman period. The cheese was originally known as "Peraldon" and has been a staple in the diet of the people living in the Cévennes and Languedoc regions. Over the centuries, Pélardon has maintained its traditional methods of production, despite the modernization of the dairy industry.

Production

The production of Pélardon is strictly regulated to ensure its quality and authenticity. The cheese is made from the milk of a specific breed of goats that graze on the diverse flora of the Languedoc-Roussillon region. This diet imparts a unique flavor to the milk and, consequently, to the cheese itself.

After milking, the goat's milk is allowed to naturally coagulate before being gently ladled into molds. The cheese is then salted and left to age for a minimum of three weeks, during which it develops a creamy texture and a distinct, nuanced flavor profile that ranges from mildly tangy to piquant, depending on the age of the cheese.

Characteristics

Pélardon cheese is easily recognizable by its small size, typically around 7 cm in diameter and 2.5 cm in height, weighing approximately 60 grams. It has a distinctive white, bloomy rind that encases a soft, creamy interior. As the cheese ages, the rind can develop a slight blueish or grayish tint, and the texture of the cheese becomes firmer.

The flavor of Pélardon is deeply influenced by the terroir of its production area, with hints of the wild herbs and flora that the goats feed on. Young Pélardon cheeses are mild and creamy, while older ones can develop a more intense, tangy flavor.

Culinary Uses

Pélardon is a versatile cheese that can be enjoyed in various ways. It can be eaten on its own, at different stages of maturation, to appreciate its evolving flavors. It is also commonly used in salads, melted over grilled vegetables, or served with honey as a dessert. Pélardon pairs well with a range of wines, particularly those from the same region, such as a crisp white Languedoc wine or a lighter red.

Protected Designation of Origin

In recognition of its historical significance and unique production methods, Pélardon was awarded the Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) status in 2000 and the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status at the European level in 2001. These designations protect the name and ensure that only cheeses produced within the specified region and adhering to the traditional methods can be called Pélardon.

See Also

• French cuisine
• List of goat milk cheeses