Vezzena

Vezzena is a type of cheese originating from the Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region of Italy. It is a semi-hard cheese made from cow's milk, and is known for its distinctive flavor and texture.

History

The production of Vezzena cheese dates back to the 15th century, making it one of the oldest cheeses in the Trentino-Alto Adige region. It was originally made by farmers in the Vezzena Plateau, which is where the cheese gets its name.

Production

Vezzena cheese is made from the milk of cows that graze on the high-altitude pastures of the Vezzena Plateau. The milk is heated and rennet is added to cause it to coagulate. The curds are then cut, heated, and pressed into molds. The cheese is aged for a minimum of 60 days, but some versions are aged for up to a year.

Characteristics

Vezzena cheese has a thin, hard rind that is yellow to brown in color. The interior of the cheese is pale yellow and has a firm, dense texture. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor with notes of hay and nuts.

Uses

Vezzena cheese can be eaten on its own or used in a variety of dishes. It is often used in fondue, melted on top of bread or pasta, or grated over salads and other dishes. It pairs well with white wines from the Trentino-Alto Adige region.

See also

• List of Italian cheeses
• Cuisine of Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol