Selles-sur-Cher cheese

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Selles-sur-cher 1

Selles-sur-Cher is a French goat cheese from the Berry province, named after the commune of Selles-sur-Cher, in the Loir-et-Cher department. It has been protected by an Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) since 1975 and by a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) at the European level.

History

The production of Selles-sur-Cher dates back to the 19th century. It was traditionally made by farmers for personal consumption, using the milk of their own goats. The cheese gained popularity and began to be produced commercially in the early 20th century. Its AOC designation in 1975 marked its recognition as a cheese of high quality and specific regional origin.

Production

Selles-sur-Cher is made from raw goat's milk. The production process involves coagulating the milk with rennet for 24 hours, followed by draining in molds that give the cheese its distinctive truncated pyramid shape. The cheese is then salted, ashed with vegetable charcoal, and left to mature for at least ten days in a cool, humid cellar. This maturation process allows the development of a natural mold on the rind, which contributes to its unique flavor.

Characteristics

Selles-sur-Cher has a soft, delicate texture and a thin, blue-gray rind covered in fine charcoal ash. The cheese is typically 2 to 3 inches in diameter and about an inch high, weighing around 150 grams. Its flavor is nutty and slightly tangy, with a hint of saltiness, becoming stronger and more complex as it ages.

Culinary Uses

Selles-sur-Cher is often enjoyed at room temperature as part of a cheese platter, allowing its full flavor to be appreciated. It pairs well with light, fruity red wines or dry white wines. The cheese can also be used in salads, as a topping for grilled vegetables, or incorporated into various recipes that call for goat cheese.

Nutritional Information

Like most goat cheeses, Selles-sur-Cher is rich in protein and calcium, while being relatively low in lactose compared to cow's milk cheeses. It also contains a variety of vitamins and minerals essential for good health.

See Also

• Goat cheese
• Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée
• Protected Designation of Origin
• Loir-et-Cher