Taleggio cheese

Taleggio cheese is a semi-soft, washed rind, smear-ripened cheese that originated in Italy. It is named after Val Taleggio, the region where it was first produced. The cheese is made from cow's milk, and it has a thin crust and a strong aroma, but its flavor is comparatively mild with an unusual fruity tang.

History

Taleggio cheese has a long history dating back to the 10th century. It was originally created by farmers in the Val Taleggio region, who used the cheese as a form of currency. The cheese was traditionally aged in caves, a practice that continues to this day.

Production

The production of Taleggio cheese involves several steps. The cheese is made from pasteurized cow's milk, which is heated and combined with yeasts and bacteria to start the fermentation process. The curd is then cut, molded, and brined to create the distinctive rind. The cheese is aged for about 40 days in a humid environment, during which time it is regularly washed with a brine solution to prevent the growth of unwanted molds and to develop its characteristic flavor and aroma.

Characteristics

Taleggio cheese is noted for its strong smell, which is due to the bacteria used in its production. Despite its pungent aroma, the cheese has a surprisingly mild, fruity, and slightly tangy flavor. It has a thin, soft rind that is edible, and a creamy, buttery texture. The cheese is typically square in shape, and it has a pale yellow color.

Uses

Taleggio cheese is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. It melts well, making it a good choice for grilled cheese sandwiches and pasta dishes. It can also be served at room temperature as part of a cheese platter, or used in salads and risottos.

See also

• List of Italian cheeses
• Washed-rind cheeses
• Smear-ripened cheeses