Roncal cheese

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Roncal cheese is a type of cheese originating from the Roncal Valley in Navarre, Spain. It is one of the first Spanish cheeses to receive the Denomination of Origin status, which it received in 1981.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The name "Roncal" comes from the Roncal Valley, where the cheese is produced. The word "Roncal" itself is of Basque origin, meaning "ravine".

Production[edit | edit source]

Roncal cheese is made from the raw milk of Latxa and Aranzana sheep. The cheese is produced between December and July, when the sheep's milk is at its richest. The cheese is aged for a minimum of four months, and during this time it develops a hard, natural rind and a firm, slightly crumbly texture.

Characteristics[edit | edit source]

Roncal cheese has a strong, slightly piquant flavor and a buttery texture. It is typically served as a table cheese, and can also be used in cooking. The cheese is cylindrical in shape, with a diameter of 10-12 cm and a height of 8-10 cm. It weighs between 1 and 1.5 kg.

History[edit | edit source]

The production of Roncal cheese has a long history in the Roncal Valley, with records of cheese production dating back to the 13th century. The cheese was traditionally made in individual farmhouses, but in the 20th century production was consolidated into seven municipal dairies.

See also[edit | edit source]

Roncal cheese Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD