Here are 10 must-try regional cheese delights from around the world:
- Brie - France: Brie is a famous French cheese known for its creamy texture and soft, edible white rind. It's made from cow's milk and has a mild, buttery flavour. Enjoy it with fresh baguette and a glass of wine.
- Parmigiano-Reggiano - Italy: This hard, aged cheese from the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy is often called the "King of Cheeses." It has a rich, nutty flavour and is used in various Italian dishes, especially pasta and risotto.
- Manchego - Spain: Manchego is a Spanish cheese made from sheep's milk. It has a distinctive flavour and is often enjoyed with quince paste. The aging process can vary, producing different flavour profiles, from mild to sharp.
- Gouda - Netherlands: Gouda is one of the most popular Dutch cheeses. It comes in various ages, from young and mild to aged and sharp. Enjoy it as a snack, in sandwiches, or melted over dishes like Dutch poffertjes.
- Cheddar - United Kingdom: Cheddar cheese originated in England and is now popular worldwide. It's known for its crumbly texture and ranges in flavour from mild to extra sharp. Try it in sandwiches, burgers, or as part of a cheese platter.
- Feta - Greece: Feta is a brined cheese made from sheep's milk, goat's milk, or a combination of both. It's tangy and crumbly, perfect for salads, pastries, or simply drizzled with olive oil and herbs.
- Roquefort - France: Roquefort is a blue cheese made from sheep's milk and is known for its strong, pungent flavour. It's a key ingredient in classic dishes like the French salad "Salade au Roquefort."
- Paneer - India: Paneer is a fresh cheese commonly used in Indian cuisine. It has a mild, milky flavour and a firm, crumbly texture. It's a vegetarian source of protein and is used in various curries and desserts.
- Havarti - Denmark: Havarti is a Danish semi-soft cheese with a buttery, creamy taste. It's versatile and can be used in sandwiches, on cheese platters, or melted on hot dishes.
- Queso Fresco - Mexico: Queso Fresco is a fresh Mexican cheese with a crumbly texture and a mild, slightly salty taste. It's often crumbled over tacos, enchiladas, and other Mexican dishes.
These are just a few examples of the many incredible cheeses from around the world. Exploring different cheeses is a delightful way to experience the diverse flavours and culinary traditions of various regions.
