P'tit Basque

P'tit Basque

A wheel of P'tit Basque cheese

P'tit Basque is a type of cheese that originates from the Basque Country, a region that spans the border between France and Spain. It is a semi-hard cheese made from sheep's milk, known for its mild and creamy flavor with a hint of nuttiness.

History

P'tit Basque was first produced in the 1990s by the French dairy company Lactalis. It was created to capture the traditional flavors of the Basque region while appealing to modern tastes. The cheese quickly gained popularity due to its unique taste and texture.

Production

P'tit Basque is made using pasteurized sheep's milk. The milk is curdled and then pressed into molds to form small wheels. The cheese is then aged for a minimum of 70 days, during which it develops its characteristic flavor and texture. The rind is brushed and turned regularly to ensure even aging.

Characteristics

P'tit Basque has a smooth, pale yellow interior with a distinctive basket-weave pattern on its rind, which is a result of the molds used during production. The cheese has a mild, sweet flavor with a nutty undertone, making it versatile for various culinary uses.

Culinary Uses

P'tit Basque can be enjoyed on its own as part of a cheese platter, or it can be paired with fruits, nuts, and wine. It also melts well, making it suitable for use in cooking and baking.

Related pages

• Cheese
• Basque Country
• Sheep's milk cheese