With its distinctive flavor profile, Manchego offers a singularly delicious taste. Tangy and nutty with hints of caramel and butterscotch, it’s a favorite among cheese lovers everywhere. Aged for anywhere from a few months to over a year, this Spanish cheese ranges in flavor and texture, with the older varieties offering a more pronounced and complex profile. Dense and chewy with a delightful taste that lingers on the palate, for a taste of this classic cheese at its finest, try the Manchego from El Hidalgo!
Manchego cheese is a versatile choice that can be used in a variety of dishes. Most commonly used in traditional Spanish recipes such as paella and tortilla Española. It can also be used as a topping for salads, pizzas, and sandwiches. The cheese pairs well with cured meats such as chorizo and serrano ham, as well as with fruit and nuts. Manchego cheese is also an excellent cheese for wine pairing. Its nutty and slightly tangy flavor complements a variety of red and white wines, including Rioja, Chianti, and Sauvignon Blanc.
What is Manchego Cheese?
Originating from the La Manch region of Spain, Manchego is a traditional sheep cheese renowned for its distinctive flavor profile and texture. Made from the milk of Manchega sheep using traditional cheesemaking techniques, it is aged for varying periods of time. This manchego cheese from El Hidalgo is aged for 3 months prior to packaging, giving it a more mild flavor than older varieties.
One of culinary history’s older recipes, this Spanish cheese has been around for centuries and is widely believed to date back over 2,000 years. Traditionally made by nomadic shepherds, today it is produced in modern facilities, but many of the ancient techniques for making the cheese have been passed down and are still implemented today.