Blu Della Casera Cheese
Origin
Italy, Piedmont
Milk Type
cow, sheep
Texture
soft
Flavor
creamy, strong
Color
ivory
Rind
leaf wrapped
Vegetarian
No
Price Range
💰💰€15-30 per kg
What is Blu Della Casera?
Blu Della Casera is a distinctive blue-veined cheese originating from the Lombardy region of Italy. It is crafted from a blend of cow's and sheep's milk, which contributes to its unique flavor profile and creamy texture. The cheese is characterized by its soft, spreadable consistency and striking blue-green veins that run throughout its pale ivory interior. Blu Della Casera is aged for a relatively short period, allowing it to retain a moist, pliable texture that is both rich and indulgent. Its rind is thin and edible, adding a subtle earthy note to the overall experience. This cheese is a testament to the artisanal cheesemaking traditions of Northern Italy, offering a harmonious balance of flavors that is both bold and refined.
History of Blu Della Casera
Blu Della Casera has its roots in the Lombardy region of Italy, an area renowned for its rich dairy farming heritage and artisanal cheese production. The cheese is named after the Casera, traditional mountain huts used by shepherds and cheesemakers in the Alps. Historically, these huts served as both living quarters and cheese aging cellars, where the cool, humid conditions were ideal for developing blue-veined cheeses. Blu Della Casera is a relatively modern creation, inspired by the ancient traditions of blue cheese production in the region. It represents a fusion of local ingredients and time-honored techniques, resulting in a cheese that is deeply rooted in the cultural and culinary landscape of Lombardy.
How Blu Della Casera is Made
Blu Della Casera is made from a blend of cow's and sheep's milk, which is gently heated and then inoculated with Penicillium roqueforti spores to initiate the blue mold development. The milk is curdled using rennet, and the resulting curds are cut and drained before being placed into molds. The cheese is then salted and pierced to allow air to enter, promoting the growth of the characteristic blue veins. Aging takes place in controlled environments, typically for a period of 2 to 3 months, during which the cheese develops its complex flavors and creamy texture. The final product is a soft, blue-veined cheese with a delicate rind and a moist, spreadable interior.
Flavor Profile
Blu Della Casera offers a rich and complex flavor profile, with a creamy, buttery base complemented by the sharp, tangy notes of the blue mold. The cheese has a pronounced earthy aroma, with hints of grass and nuts that reflect the quality of the milk used. Its texture is soft and spreadable, making it a delight to eat on its own or as part of a cheese board. The blue veins add a bold, slightly spicy kick, while the rind contributes a subtle, earthy undertone. Overall, Blu Della Casera is a well-balanced cheese that combines bold flavors with a luxurious mouthfeel.
Perfect Pairings for Blu Della Casera
Blu Della Casera pairs beautifully with a variety of foods and beverages. For a traditional pairing, try it with a glass of full-bodied red wine such as Barolo or Amarone, which can stand up to the cheese's bold flavors. Sweet accompaniments like honey, figs, or pear compote can balance the tanginess of the blue mold. For a more adventurous pairing, consider a rich, malty beer like a Belgian Dubbel or a stout. On a cheese board, Blu Della Casera shines alongside crusty bread, walnuts, and cured meats. It can also be used in cooking, adding depth to risottos, pasta dishes, or even a decadent blue cheese burger.
Nutritional Information
Fat Content
High
Calcium Content
High
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the flavor of Blu Della Casera?
Blu Della Casera has a rich, creamy flavor with sharp, tangy notes from the blue mold and a subtle earthy undertone from the rind.
How long is Blu Della Casera aged?
Blu Della Casera is typically aged for 2 to 3 months, allowing it to develop its complex flavors and creamy texture.
Can I eat the rind of Blu Della Casera?
Yes, the rind of Blu Della Casera is thin and edible, adding a subtle earthy note to the cheese.
What are some good pairings for Blu Della Casera?
Blu Della Casera pairs well with full-bodied red wines, sweet accompaniments like honey and figs, and rich, malty beers.
How does Blu Della Casera compare to other blue cheeses?
Blu Della Casera is similar to Gorgonzola in its creamy texture and bold blue mold flavor, but it has a unique blend of cow's and sheep's milk that sets it apart.