Parenica

Parenica is a traditional Slovak cheese that is made from sheep's milk. It is a semi-firm, non-ripening, semi-fat, steamed and usually smoked cheese, although the non-smoked version is also produced. Parenica is cream and yellow in color, which darkens with smoking, and has a distinctively pleasant aroma with a mildly smoky flavor. The cheese is produced in a traditional way in the mountain huts of beautiful Slovak mountains.

Production

The production of Parenica begins with sheep's milk that is heated in a large vat until it reaches a temperature of about 30-32 degrees Celsius. Then, a starter culture and rennet are added to the milk to start the curdling process. The curd is then cut into small pieces, which are heated until they reach a temperature of about 38-40 degrees Celsius. The curd is then removed from the heat and left to rest for a while. After resting, the curd is shaped into a large flat piece, which is then cut into two halves. Each half is rolled up from both ends towards the middle, forming a hank of cheese. The cheese is then steamed and can be smoked for additional flavor.

Consumption

Parenica is typically consumed as a part of traditional Slovak dishes. It can be eaten on its own, or used in cooking, often melted on top of dishes. It pairs well with fruits like apples and grapes, and is often served with a glass of red wine.

See also

• List of smoked foods
• List of cheeses