Discovering Spanish Blue Cheese

Are you a cheese lover looking to try something new and exciting? Then you must try Spanish blue cheese! Spanish blue cheese is a delicious and unique type of cheese that is sure to delight your taste buds. This article will provide you with an introduction to Spanish blue cheese, its history, the types of Spanish blue cheese available, how to pair it with wines, the health benefits of Spanish blue cheese, and tips on cooking with Spanish blue cheese.

The History of Spanish Blue Cheese

Spanish blue cheese has a rich history that dates back to the 13th century. The cheese was first made by the monks of the Montes de Toledo region, who were inspired by the Roquefort cheese from France. However, the Spanish blue cheese has its distinct flavor and texture that is different from Roquefort cheese.

Over the years, Spanish blue cheese production has evolved, and many regions in Spain now produce this delicious cheese. The most famous regions for Spanish blue cheese production are Castile-La Mancha, Asturias, and Catalonia.

Types of Spanish Blue Cheese Available

There are several types of Spanish blue cheese available, and each type has its unique flavor and texture. The most popular types of Spanish blue cheese are Cabrales, Valdeón, and La Peral.

Cabrales is a traditional blue cheese made from cow, sheep, or goat milk. It has a strong and pungent flavor with a creamy texture that is perfect for spreading on crackers or bread.

Valdeón is another blue cheese made from cow and goat milk. It has a milder and creamier flavor than Cabrales, making it perfect for those who are new to blue cheese.

La Peral is a blue cheese made from cow’s milk. It has a milder flavor than Cabrales and Valdeón but with a nutty and buttery taste.

How to Pair Spanish Blue Cheese with Wines

Spanish blue cheese pairs well with a variety of wines, including red, white, and fortified wines. The strong flavor of Spanish blue cheese pairs well with robust red wines, such as Rioja or Ribera del Duero. For a white wine pairing, try a full-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or Viognier. For a fortified wine pairing, try a sweet sherry or port.

When pairing Spanish blue cheese with wine, it is essential to consider the intensity of both the wine and cheese. A strong blue cheese like Cabrales pairs well with a bold red wine, while a milder blue cheese like Valdeón pairs well with a lighter white wine.

The Health Benefits of Spanish Blue Cheese

Spanish blue cheese has several health benefits, making it an excellent addition to your diet. Like most cheeses, Spanish blue cheese is an excellent source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.

The cheese also contains probiotics, which can improve gut health and boost the immune system. Additionally, Spanish blue cheese is a good source of protein, making it an excellent food for those looking to build muscle.

Cooking with Spanish Blue Cheese: Recipes and Tips

Spanish blue cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. Whether you want to add it to a salad, use it as a topping for pizza, or mix it into a dip, Spanish blue cheese adds a unique flavor and texture to any dish.

One classic Spanish dish that uses blue cheese is the Croquetas de Cabrales, which are small fried balls made from a mixture of flour, milk, and Cabrales cheese. Another popular dish is the Spanish blue cheese and walnut tart, which combines the nutty flavor of walnuts with the creamy and tangy flavor of blue cheese.

When cooking with Spanish blue cheese, it is important to note that it has a strong flavor, so a little goes a long way. You can also use mild blue cheeses like Valdeón or La Peral for recipes that require a milder flavor. Additionally, Spanish blue cheese pairs well with other strong flavors like nuts, honey, and even dark chocolate.

In conclusion, Spanish blue cheese is a delicious and unique type of cheese that is worth trying for any cheese lover. With its rich history, variety of types available, and health benefits, it is no wonder that Spanish blue cheese is becoming more popular around the world. Whether you enjoy it on its own, paired with wine, or used in a recipe, Spanish blue cheese is sure to impress your taste buds.