Queijo Fresco de Azeitão: Azeitão's Finest Fresh Cheese

The roots of Queijo Fresco de Azeitão trace back to the 19th century, when a Portuguese nobleman named Gaspar Henriques de Paiva arrived in Azeitão. Carrying with him black dairy sheep from his hometown of Beira Baixa, Gaspar also enlisted the expertise of skilled cheesemakers from the same region. Together, they meticulously crafted cheese using traditional methods, passed down through generations. The cheese quickly gained popularity and accolades, captivating the taste buds of locals and earning recognition at agricultural fairs. Gaspar's descendants upheld his legacy, expanding the production of Azeitão cheese and ensuring its continued excellence.

With its Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status bestowed upon it by the European Union, this cheese stands as a testament to Portugal's rich cultural and culinary heritage. Crafting this exceptional cheese begins with the manual milking of sheep that graze freely on the natural pastures of Azeitão. These sheep thrive on a diet of aromatic herbs and grasses, which impart a unique and distinctive flavor to their milk. The milk is then combined with an extract from a local variety of thistle known as cardoon, a natural coagulant that lends the cheese its captivating taste. The curd is carefully salted and shaped into small round molds, aptly named cinchos, before being wrapped in muslin cloth. The cheese is then left to age for a minimum of 21 days in a cool and humid environment, allowing it to develop a delicate yellowish rind.

Queijo Fresco de Azeitão boasts a sumptuous texture, both creamy and supple, with a color that ranges from white to a light yellow hue. The cheese showcases its craftsmanship with few, if any, holes dispersed throughout its body. Delighting the palate, it possesses a pleasingly sour and salty taste, accentuated by herbaceous notes derived from the sheep's diet. A subtle bitterness from the cardoon adds depth and complexity to its flavor profile. To fully appreciate its gastronomic wonders, this cheese is best enjoyed at room temperature, scooped onto a slice of fresh bread or accompanied by delicate crackers. For those with a sweet tooth, it harmonizes beautifully with fruits, honey, jams, or nuts, creating an exquisite dessert sensation.

Pairing Queijo Fresco de Azeitão with wine is a delightful endeavor, as it complements a range of varietals. White wines hailing from the Setúbal peninsula, such as the renowned Moscatel de Setúbal or Palmela wines, harmonize splendidly with this cheese. Additionally, red wine enthusiasts can find enjoyment by combining Azeitão cheese with Mencía from Spain or the celebrated Port Wines of Portugal.

More than just a cheese, Queijo Fresco de Azeitão embodies the cultural and culinary heritage of Portugal. It encapsulates the essence of the region, reflecting the diverse biodiversity and skilled craftsmanship that go into its creation. Every bite of this cheese offers a sensory experience like no other, an opportunity to savor the authenticity and tradition that has been lovingly preserved throughout generations. Queijo Fresco de Azeitão stands as a true delicacy, a symbol of Portugal's dedication to culinary excellence and a must-try for all cheese lovers seeking a taste of the extraordinary.