Asiago Cheese​

Asiago Cheese : A Complete Guide

Introduction :

People all over the world love cheese. It comes in many flavors, textures, and types. One such delicious cheese is Asiago cheese. It is a tasty and versatile cheese that enhances many dishes. If you have never tried Asiago cheese before, this guide will help you learn everything about it.

In this blog, we will discuss what Asiago cheese is, how cheese makers produce it, its history, different types, how to use it, and its health benefits. By the end of this article, you will know all about this amazing cheese!

What is Asiago Cheese?

Asiago cheese is a cow’s milk cheese that originates from Italy. It has a rich and nutty flavor with a slightly tangy taste. The texture changes depending on how long it has aged. When fresh, it feels soft and smooth, but as it ages, it becomes hard and crumbly. Because of its unique taste and texture, people use it in many dishes, such as pasta, salads, soups, and sandwiches.

History of Asiago Cheese :

Cheese makers have produced Asiago cheese for centuries. It comes from the Asiago Plateau in northern Italy, where locals originally created it. They first made it using sheep’s milk, but over time, they switched to cow’s milk as the main ingredient. Today, Asiago cheese enjoys worldwide fame and holds a special status called PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) from the European Union. This designation ensures that only cheese made in certain regions of Italy using traditional methods can be called Asiago cheese.

Types of Asiago Cheese :

There are two main types of Asiago cheese:

1. Asiago Pressato (Fresh Asiago) :

• Cheese makers age this young cheese for about one month.
• It has a soft, smooth, and creamy texture.
• The taste is mild, buttery, and slightly sweet.
• People often use it in sandwiches, burgers, and salads.

2. Asiago d’Allevo (Aged Asiago) :

• Cheese makers age this variety for a longer period, ranging from a few months to over a year.
• It has a hard and crumbly texture.
• The taste is stronger, sharper, and nuttier compared to fresh Asiago.
• People often grate it over pasta, soups, and other dishes.

How Cheese Makers Produce Asiago Cheese :

The process of making Asiago cheese follows traditional cheese-making techniques. Here are the basic steps:

1. Milk Collection: Farmers collect fresh cow’s milk from local farms.
2. Heating: Cheese makers heat the milk and mix it with natural cultures to develop flavors.
3. Curd Formation: They add rennet to the milk to form curds.
4. Cutting the Curds: The curds are cut into small pieces and stirred.
5. Draining & Pressing: They drain the curds and press them into molds.
6. Aging: Depending on the type of Asiago, the cheese ages for different periods.
7. Packaging: Once aged, the cheese is cut and packaged for sale.

How to Use Asiago Cheese :

Asiago cheese enhances many recipes. Here are some popular ways to use it:

1. In Pasta :

Grate aged Asiago cheese over pasta dishes to add a rich, nutty flavor. It melts beautifully and enhances the taste of classic Italian pasta recipes like Alfredo or carbonara.

2. In Salads :

Cut fresh Asiago into cubes and mix it with vegetables for a delicious salad. It pairs well with fresh greens, nuts, and fruits like pears or apples, adding a creamy and slightly tangy bite.

3. In Soups :

Sprinkle grated Asiago cheese on top of soups for extra taste. It works especially well with creamy soups like tomato basil, potato leek, or minestrone, giving them a rich and comforting flavor.

4. In Sandwiches & Burgers :

Melt fresh Asiago in sandwiches or burgers for a creamy and tasty bite. The mild and buttery flavor of fresh Asiago complements grilled meats, veggies, and even spicy toppings.

5. On Pizzas :

Use Asiago cheese instead of mozzarella for a unique flavor in homemade pizzas. Its sharp and nutty taste adds depth to the cheesy goodness, making your pizza even more delicious.

6. With Bread & Crackers :

Serve Asiago cheese with bread, crackers, and fruits for a simple and delicious snack. Aged Asiago is perfect for cheese boards, pairing well with honey, jams, and cured meats.

Health Benefits of Asiago Cheese :

Asiago cheese is not only tasty but also has several health benefits:

1. Rich in Protein

Asiago cheese provides protein, which helps in muscle building and repair.

2. Good Source of Calcium

It contains high levels of calcium, which supports strong bones and teeth.

3. Provides Healthy Fats

It includes healthy fats that contribute to brain function and energy.

4. Rich in Vitamins

Asiago cheese offers vitamins like Vitamin A, B12, and D, which support overall health.

5. Boosts Digestion

Aged Asiago contains probiotics that aid digestion and gut health.

How to Store Asiago Cheese :

To keep Asiago cheese fresh for a long time, follow these storage tips:

• Refrigerate: Store the cheese in the fridge at a cool temperature.
• Wrap Properly: Wrap it in wax paper or parchment paper, then place it in an airtight container.
• Avoid Moisture: Keep it away from excess moisture to prevent mold.
• Use within Time: Consume fresh Asiago within a few weeks, while aged Asiago lasts longer if stored properly.

Where to Buy Asiago Cheese :

You can find Asiago cheese in most grocery stores, supermarkets, and online shops. Look for the label that says “Asiago PDO” to ensure you are getting authentic cheese.

Conclusion :

Asiago cheese is a delicious and versatile cheese with a long history and many uses. Whether you prefer it fresh or aged, it adds a wonderful flavor to many dishes. It also contains nutrients that provide health benefits. If you love cheese, Asiago is definitely worth trying. Enjoy it in your favorite recipes and experience its rich taste!

We hope this guide has helped you learn more about Asiago cheese. Have you ever tried Asiago cheese? How do you like to eat it? Let us know in the comments below!