What Is Asiago Cheese? A Beginner’s Guide To The World Of Italian Cheese

Asiago cheese, a delectable masterpiece from the Veneto region of Italy, holds a prominent place among the world’s finest cheeses. Its distinct flavor profile and versatile applications make it a beloved ingredient in countless culinary creations. This blog post delves into the captivating world of Asiago cheese, exploring its origin, characteristics, varieties, and culinary uses.

A Historical Journey to Asiago’s Origins

The history of Asiago cheese dates back to the 10th century, with its roots intertwined with the mountainous terrain of the Asiago plateau. Local farmers crafted this cheese using the abundant milk from their cows, giving birth to a culinary treasure that would later gain worldwide recognition.

The Hallmarks of Asiago Cheese

Asiago cheese is characterized by its firm texture that ranges from supple to crumbly, depending on its aging period. Its flavor profile is complex and captivating, with hints of nuttiness, saltiness, and a subtle sweetness. The cheese’s color varies from pale yellow to a more intense golden hue, reflecting its aging time.

Unveiling the Varieties of Asiago

Asiago cheese comes in two primary varieties:

• Asiago Pressato: This is the most common type of Asiago cheese. It is characterized by its cylindrical shape and undergoes a pressing process that gives it a firm texture. Asiago Pressato is further classified into three aging categories:
• Fresh (0-6 months): Mild and buttery flavor
• Medium (6-10 months): Nutty and slightly salty flavor
• Old (10+ months): Intensely flavorful with a crumbly texture

• Asiago D’Allevo: This variety is aged for a minimum of two years, resulting in a harder texture and a more pronounced flavor. Asiago D’Allevo has a distinctive pyramid shape and is often used for grating.

Culinary Explorations with Asiago Cheese

The versatility of Asiago cheese makes it a culinary chameleon, seamlessly adapting to various dishes:

• Pasta and Risotto: Asiago’s nutty flavor complements pasta dishes and adds a creamy richness to risottos.

• Salads and Sandwiches: Its crumbly texture and salty notes enhance the flavors of salads and sandwiches.

• Appetizers and Charcuterie Boards: Asiago’s sharp flavor and firm texture make it an ideal addition to appetizer platters and charcuterie boards.

• Soups and Sauces: Asiago’s melting properties make it a perfect ingredient for creamy soups and rich sauces.

The Health Benefits of Asiago Cheese

In addition to its culinary delights, Asiago cheese offers several health benefits:

• Rich in Protein: Asiago cheese is a good source of protein, essential for building and repairing body tissues.

• Calcium and Phosphorus: It is a rich source of calcium and phosphorus, crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth.

• Vitamin D: Asiago cheese contains vitamin D, which helps the body absorb calcium and supports bone health.

Pairing Asiago Cheese with Wine

To enhance the culinary experience, pairing Asiago cheese with the right wine can elevate its flavors:

• Fresh Asiago: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio

• Medium Asiago: Chardonnay or Pinot Noir

• Old Asiago: Cabernet Sauvignon or Amarone della Valpolicella

The Art of Storing Asiago Cheese

To preserve the optimal quality of Asiago cheese, proper storage is essential:

• Refrigeration: Store Asiago cheese in the refrigerator at a temperature of around 40°F (4°C).

• Wrapping: Wrap the cheese tightly in plastic wrap or cheese paper to prevent moisture loss and contamination.

• Freezing: Asiago cheese can be frozen for up to six months, although its texture may become slightly crumbly after thawing.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: What is the difference between Asiago Pressato and Asiago D’Allevo?
A: Asiago Pressato is made with fresh milk and aged for a shorter period, resulting in a milder flavor and a more supple texture. Asiago D’Allevo, on the other hand, is made with skimmed milk and aged for a minimum of two years, giving it a harder texture and a more intense flavor.

Q: Can I use Asiago cheese in place of Parmesan cheese?
A: Yes, Asiago cheese can be used as a substitute for Parmesan cheese, although it may have a slightly different flavor profile.

Q: What is the best way to grate Asiago cheese?
A: For best results, use a fine-holed grater to grate Asiago cheese. This will prevent the cheese from crumbling into large pieces.