Primo Fresco Cheese
Origin
United States, California
Milk Type
sheep
Texture
creamy, fluffy, spreadable
Flavor
salty, savory, subtle, tangy
Aroma
fresh, mild
Color
white
Rind
natural
Vegetarian
Yes
Price Range
💰💰€15-30 per kg
What is Primo Fresco?
Primo Fresco is an artisan fresh soft cheese made from sheep's milk, originating from the United States. This cheese is celebrated for its creamy texture and mild, delicate flavor, making it a versatile choice for various culinary applications. Its appearance is typically white and slightly moist, with a soft, spreadable consistency that is perfect for immediate consumption. Primo Fresco stands out for its artisanal quality, reflecting the care and tradition of small-scale cheesemaking. It's a testament to the growing American artisan cheese movement, showcasing the potential for high-quality, locally produced cheeses.
History of Primo Fresco
Primo Fresco is a relatively new addition to the American artisan cheese scene, developed by cheesemakers who are passionate about creating high-quality, fresh cheeses from sheep's milk. Its creation is part of a broader trend in the United States towards artisanal and locally sourced foods. While it may not have a long history, Primo Fresco represents the innovation and dedication of American cheesemakers to produce unique and flavorful cheeses. It embodies the spirit of modern American cheesemaking, where tradition meets innovation.
How Primo Fresco is Made
Primo Fresco is made from high-quality sheep's milk, which is gently pasteurized before the cheesemaking process begins. The milk is then curdled using a specific culture and rennet, allowing the curds to form. These curds are carefully handled to preserve their delicate structure, then lightly pressed and drained to achieve the desired moisture content. Unlike aged cheeses, Primo Fresco is meant to be enjoyed fresh, so it skips the aging process, resulting in a soft, creamy texture and a mild flavor profile.
Flavor Profile
Primo Fresco offers a mild, slightly tangy flavor with a creamy, smooth texture that melts in your mouth. Its aroma is fresh and milky, with subtle hints of the grassy pastures where the sheep graze. The cheese's simplicity and freshness make it a delightful addition to any dish, providing a light, refreshing taste that complements rather than overwhelms.
Perfect Pairings for Primo Fresco
Primo Fresco pairs wonderfully with light, crisp white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which complement its mild tanginess. For beer enthusiasts, a light pilsner or wheat beer can enhance its creamy texture. It's also excellent with fresh fruits like figs and pears, or drizzled with honey for a sweet and savory treat. Crusty bread, crackers, and a selection of olives make for a perfect cheese board featuring Primo Fresco.
Nutritional Information
Fat Content
High
Calcium Content
Moderate
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Primo Fresco cheese pasteurized?
Yes, Primo Fresco is made from pasteurized sheep's milk to ensure safety and quality.
How should Primo Fresco be stored?
It should be kept refrigerated and is best consumed within a few days of purchase to enjoy its fresh qualities.
Can Primo Fresco be used in cooking?
Absolutely, its creamy texture makes it suitable for a variety of dishes, though it's best added at the end of cooking to preserve its delicate flavor.
What makes Primo Fresco different from other fresh cheeses?
Its use of sheep's milk gives it a unique flavor and texture, setting it apart from cow or goat milk fresh cheeses.
Is Primo Fresco suitable for vegetarians?
This depends on the rennet used; traditional animal rennet is not vegetarian, but some versions may use vegetarian rennet.