Spanish Cheese

                                                                                                                                                               

Spanish cheese is the traditional cheese from Spain known for exquisite quality and varieties. The making of cheese is quite a serious affair and presently 13 cheeses reign the Cheese arena in Spain. Spanish cheese is a part of everyday Spanish diet either by itself or along with bread, as a tapa or as a dessert. Owing to the disparity in climate, geography and culture, every region of Spain makes numerous kinds of cheese. Spanish cheese are remarkable for distinct features including the source of milk for cheese, processes involved, flavours, etc. Spanish cheese recipes are equally delectable.

 

History

Spanish cheese has an ancient history. It is believed that cheese making techniques were developed and introduced into spain by the Romans in and around 2nd century BC. Although archaeological evidences point to a theory that cheese very similar to Manchego was produced several centuries BC much before the arrival of Romans. All through history the goat has been the poor man’s supply of dairy and fresh goats’ cheese for direct consumption made all over Spain.

 

Varieties

Cabrales (Ka-BRAH-lays) is a blue cheese, made by dairy farmers of Asturia and is a popularly chosen in a number of Spanish cheese recipes.

Mahon (Ma-HONE)is characterised by the colour and aroma in its rind duly rendered by olive oil and paprika. It is generally served as an appetizer or added into Spanish cheese recipes of sauces and grilled breads.

Manchego (Mahn-CHEY-go) is believed to have been the favourite of legendary Don Quixote, matured in the antique cattle-raising province of La Mancha from the milk of Manchega sheep also sometimes instilled with rosemary in Spanish Cheese recipes.

Idiazabal (Eee-dee-ya-ZA-bal)is a smoky, tasty and aromatic classic Sheppard's' cheese from the Basque country made out of sheep milk.

Iberico (Eye-BEAR-ee-coh)is born out of a blend of cows' and sheep's milk containing a smooth flavour.

 

Popular Spanish cheeseRecipes

Spanish Burgers with Romesco and Manchego Cheese are burger variants from Spain. It is made from Romesco (roasted red pepper pesto), beef and spiky Manchego cheese for the topping.

Baked Spanish Spinach Balls in Roasted Bell Pepper Sauce (Albond) is a conventional recipe made in Madrid, capital of Spain. Spanish cheeses such as Monterey Jack or other mild cheeses that melt well can be used.

Queso Frito (Fried Cheese) Spanish smoked paprika is prepared with flour paprika, beaten eggs, breadcrumbs, manchego cheese, oregano and oil.

Manchego Cheese With Spicy Pisto is a recipe for pan-fried cheese with a tomato sauce.