What Items Are Italian Cheese? 3 Must-Try Varieties
What Items Are Italian Cheese? If you’re a cheese lover, then Italian cheeses are definitely worth exploring. From creamy and tangy to nutty and sharp, there’s an array of flavors waiting to be discovered in the world of Italian cheese.
Whether you’re putting together a cheese board for your next party or simply looking to elevate your pasta dishes, here is a beginner’s guide to 10 must-try varieties of Italian cheese.
First up on our list is Parmigiano Reggiano, also known as ‘The King of Cheeses.’ This hard cheese from the Emilia-Romagna region has been produced since the Middle Ages and is still made using traditional methods today. With its complex flavor profile that includes notes of nuts, fruits, and spices, it’s no wonder why this cheese is so highly prized.
Keep reading to learn about more delicious Italian cheeses that will make any meal feel like a culinary adventure!
Parmigiano Reggiano – The King Of Cheeses
As any true Italian cheese lover knows, no list of must-try varieties would be complete without the inclusion of Parmigiano Reggiano. Considered by many to be the king of cheeses, this iconic variety is beloved for its sharp and nutty flavor profile, which only becomes richer and more complex with age.
Crafted exclusively in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations, Parmigiano Reggiano is made from cow’s milk that has been carefully selected for its quality and richness.
After being heated and curdled, the resulting mixture is cut into tiny granules before being pressed into molds where it will age for a minimum of 12 months (and often much longer).
The result? A hard, crumbly cheese with a distinctive straw-colored rind that can be grated over pasta dishes or enjoyed on its own as an appetizer.
And now onto mozzarella di bufala – creamy and delicate…
Mozzarella Di Bufala – Creamy And Delicate
As we dive deeper into our guide, it’s time to introduce you to one of the most beloved Italian cheeses – Mozzarella di Bufala.
This cheese is a true delicacy that can be tasted in every bite. Mozzarella di Bufala is made from buffalo milk and has a creamy texture that melts in your mouth. Its delicate flavor makes it an ideal ingredient for salads, pizzas, or simply eaten on its own with a drizzle of olive oil.
It’s no wonder why this cheese is so popular not only in Italy but all around the world.
Gorgonzola – Bold And Blue
Continuing our journey through the world of Italian cheeses, let’s move on from the creamy and delicate Mozzarella di Bufala to a bolder and more adventurous variety – Gorgonzola.
This blue cheese hails from the town of Gorgonzola in Lombardy, where it has been made since at least the 9th century.
Gorgonzola is known for its crumbly texture and intense flavor that ranges from spicy to sweet. The blue veins running throughout are created by introducing Penicillium roqueforti spores during production.
While some may find this cheese too pungent for their taste buds, others relish in its boldness and use it as a standout ingredient in salads or melted atop steaks.
Pairing suggestions include red wines like Barolo or Amarone, honey, and pear slices.
Conclusion
So there you have it, my fellow cheese enthusiasts – a beginner’s guide to Italian cheeses with 10 must-try varieties.
From the ‘King of Cheeses’ Parmigiano Reggiano to the creamy and delicate Mozzarella di Bufala, these cheeses will transport your taste buds straight to Italy.
Did you know that Italy produces over 450 types of cheese? With such a vast selection, it can be overwhelming for beginners to choose which ones to try first. But fear not!
Start with these 10 delicious options and soon enough, you’ll find yourself exploring even more unique and flavorful Italian cheeses. Buon appetito!
