Cheese to Savor: Discover the Delights of Hard Cheeses
If you’re a fan of cheese, you know there are endless options in the market. From soft, creamy cheeses to chewy, aged ones, the variety can be overwhelming. If you want to try something that’s got a bold and distinctive flavor, then hard cheeses can be a great choice.
Hard cheeses come in different textures, shapes and sizes, and nearly every region in the world has its own unique version. From Parmigiano-Reggiano from Italy to Cheddar from England, these cheeses have been enjoyed for centuries.
Here’s a closer look at the top 10 delicious hard cheese varieties you can sink your teeth into!
Cotija
**What is Cotija?**
Cotija is a popular Mexican cheese that’s crumbly and salty. Made from cow’s milk, Cotija is named after a town in Mexico and is a popular ingredient in many dishes.
**How to Enjoy Cotija**
Cotija is a versatile cheese that can be grated on top of salads or tacos. It’s also used in Mexican cuisine as a topping for beans and other dishes.
Parmigiano-Reggiano
**What is Parmigiano-Reggiano?**
Parmigiano-Reggiano is an Italian hard cheese that’s popular around the world. Made from cow’s milk, it comes from the Parma and Reggio-Emilia region in Italy.
**How to Enjoy Parmigiano-Reggiano**
Parmigiano-Reggiano is perfect for grating on top of pasta or soup. It’s also great when paired with fruit, particularly pears or apples, for a savory and sweet contrast.
Cheddar
**What is Cheddar?**
Cheddar is a popular cheese made from cow’s milk that originates from England. It is a firm, crumbly cheese that can come in various flavors like sharp, mild or extra sharp.
**How to Enjoy Cheddar**
Cheddar can be sliced and enjoyed on a cheese board or melted on top of grilled cheese sandwiches. It also pairs well with crackers or in mac and cheese.
Gouda
**What is Gouda?**
Gouda is a Dutch cheese that’s been around since the Middle Ages. Made from cow’s milk, it’s a semi-hard cheese with a yellow interior and a red or yellow wax coating.
**How to Enjoy Gouda**
Gouda is a great option for snacking or as an appetizer with crackers or sliced fruits. It’s also great melted in sandwiches or on top of burgers.
Manchego
**What is Manchego?**
Manchego is a Spanish cheese made from sheep’s milk. It has a firm texture and a buttery, sweet taste that makes it a beloved choice for cheese lovers.
**How to Enjoy Manchego**
Manchego can be enjoyed in a cheese platter or grated over salads and soups. It also pairs well with Chorizo or quince paste.
Pecorino
**What is Pecorino?**
Pecorino is an Italian cheese that’s made from 100% sheep’s milk. It has a salty, tangy taste and a hard texture and comes in different varieties such as Pecorino Romano and Mini Pecorino.
**How to Enjoy Pecorino**
Pecorino can be used in pasta dishes like Cacio e Pepe or grated on top of pizza. It also pairs perfectly with honey and figs for a sweet and savory combination.
Asiago
**What is Asiago?**
Asiago is an Italian cheese that’s been around since the 12th century. Made from cow’s milk, it has a nutty and sweet taste with a hard and crumbly texture.
**How to Enjoy Asiago**
Asiago can be grated over salads or pasta dishes. It also pairs well with olives or crusty bread.
Emmental
**What is Emmental?**
Emmental is a Swiss cheese that’s been around since the 15th century. Known for its distinctive holes (or “eyes”), it’s a mild and nutty cheese made from cow’s milk.
**How to Enjoy Emmental**
Emmental is often used in fondue or on top of sandwiches and burgers. It also pairs well with fruits like grapes or apples.
Halloumi
**What is Halloumi?**
Halloumi is a Cypriot cheese that’s made from a mix of goat’s and sheep’s milk. It has a high melting point, which means it can be fried or grilled without losing its shape.
**How to Enjoy Halloumi**
Halloumi is perfect for grilling or frying and can be added to a salad or as a burger filling. It’s also great as a vegetarian alternative to bacon.
In conclusion, hard cheeses are a fantastic way to elevate your cheese game with their bold flavors and textures. Whether you prefer a tangy Pecorino or a nutty Emmental, there’s a perfect cheese out there for you. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things to discover all the delightful flavors hard cheeses have to offer.
