Semi-cured cheese

Semi-cured cheese

What does it mean for a cheese to be semi-cured?

Semi-cured cheese is a type of cheese that has been matured for a period of time between fresh cheese and mature cheese. During this ripening process, the cheese develops a more complex and distinctive flavour, and the appearance becomes firmer and less moist than that of a fresh cheese.

The ripening time can vary according to the type of cheese, but is generally between 2 and 3 months. Semi-cured cheeses have a stronger flavour than fresh cheeses, but are not as intense as cured cheeses. Spanish semi-cured cheeses are an excellent choice for those who are looking for a balance between the mildness and the intensity of a cheese´s flavour.

Characteristics of semi-cured cheeses from Spain

Semi-cured cheese is a dairy product that, when matured for more than 2 months, acquires an accentuated flavour and a firmer body as it loses moisture. Usually made from sheep´s milk, it is a rich source of minerals, fats and proteins. There is a semi-cured cheese variant made from pasteurised milk, which differs from the raw milk cheese in the temperature used during production.

The natural rind of semi-cured cheese is edible and develops through natural fermentation, which adds nuances of flavour and aroma to the final product. The paste of the semi-cured cheese is hard and is obtained through the use of specially selected rennet, obtained naturally from the stomachs of lambs or kids. The result is a cheese with an exceptional taste, ideal on its own or as an ingredient in gourmet dishes.

Ripening period of an artisan semi-cured cheese

The ripening times of an artisan semi-cured cheese can vary depending on the type of cheese and the environmental conditions, such as humidity and temperature. However, in general, this cheese is matured for a period of 2 to 3 months. During this time, the cheese undergoes a series of biochemical processes that affect its flavour, texture and aroma.

During the resting process it loses moisture and becomes firmer, which contributes to a more intense flavour, and the natural enzymes present in the product act, giving rise to a wide variety of flavours and aromas.

It is important to note that the ripening period can vary according to the type of cheese, some semi-cured cheeses can mature for longer periods, which gives them an even stronger and more complex flavour.

Best Spanish semi-cured cheeses

Spain is known for its wide variety of cheeses, each with its own distinctive flavour and texture. Some of the best Spanish semi-cured cheeses include:

Manchego: Manchego cheese is one of Spain´s most famous cheeses, made from sheep´s milk from the La Mancha region. It has a firm texture and an intense flavour, which becomes more complex with the maturing process. It is the most awarded product in Spain and semi-cured cheeses are one of the most popular varieties.

Campoveja washed rind: Another award-winning cheese, in this case from the Valladolid area, it has a rind washed with salt water, which gives it an orangey colour.

Idiazábal: Originally from the Basque Country and Navarre, Idiazábal cheese is made from raw sheep´s milk. It has a smoky flavour and a firm texture, which becomes creamier as it matures.

Roncal: Roncal cheese is made in the Pyrenees with raw sheep´s milk. It has an intense, sharp flavour with a firm, dry texture.

These are just a few examples of the many Spanish semi-cured cheeses available. The choice of the best cheese will depend on individual taste and preference for certain flavours and textures.

The best quality of Spanish semi-cured cheeses

Spain is one of the countries with the longest tradition in cheese making, and Spanish semi-cured cheeses are highly valued for their excellent quality and flavour, sometimes a little stronger or slightly spicy.

Depending on the areas and the production process, some cheeses can exceed 3 months of conservation, which gives them a firmer consistency and a greater intensity of flavour compared to other semi-cured cheeses. In addition, some Spanish semi-cured cheeses have a consistency that makes them ideal to be eaten alone or as part of a cheese plate.

They are very versatile and can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from salads to main courses. They are also very popular as an aperitif and are often accompanied with nuts, fruit or wine.

At Your Spanish Shop we offer you the best selection of semi-cured cheeses, our international shipping service allows you to enjoy them anywhere in the world.