Salers cheese

Salers cheese is a traditional French cheese originating from the Auvergne region in central France. It is named after the small town of Salers in the Cantal department. Salers cheese is a semi-hard cheese made exclusively from the raw milk of the Salers breed of cattle, which graze on the rich, volcanic pastures of the Auvergne mountains. This cheese is one of the oldest in France, with its production dating back over 2,000 years.

Production

The production of Salers cheese is highly regulated to ensure its quality and authenticity. It is a seasonal cheese, produced only between April 15 and November 15, when the cows are out in the pastures. The cheese is made using traditional methods, which include hand-milking the cows and using wooden vats called "gerles" for curdling the milk with natural rennet. After curdling, the curd is cut, heated, and then pressed into molds. The cheese is then salted and aged for a minimum of three months, although some varieties are aged for up to a year or more, developing a stronger flavor and firmer texture.

Characteristics

Salers cheese has a distinctive, thick, grayish-brown rind and a firm, creamy, golden-yellow interior. It has a complex flavor profile that includes hints of nuts, flowers, and spices, reflecting the rich biodiversity of the Auvergne pastures. The cheese's texture can vary from smooth and creamy to more crumbly, depending on the age.

Culinary Uses

Salers cheese is versatile in the kitchen. It can be enjoyed on its own, with a slice of rustic bread and a glass of robust red wine, such as a Cahors or a Saint-Émilion. It is also used in salads, melted over potatoes or vegetables, and incorporated into sauces to add depth and flavor.

Regulation

Salers cheese benefits from a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, which is a European designation that protects the names of quality agricultural products and foodstuffs. The PDO status for Salers cheese ensures that only cheese produced using traditional methods and within the designated geographical area can be sold under the name "Salers."

See Also

• Cantal cheese
• Auvergne (region)
• French cuisine
• List of French cheeses