Queijo Serra da Estrela
Queijo Serra da Estrela is a renowned Portuguese mountain cheese made from raw sheep's milk, known for its exceptionally creamy and runny interior when ripe. It is a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) cheese, meaning its production is strictly regulated to ensure authenticity and quality.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 wheel (approx. 1-1.5 kg) Serra da Estrela cheese(Ensure the cheese is ripe; it should yield slightly to gentle pressure and have a creamy, almost liquid interior when at room temperature.)
- for serving Crusty bread(A rustic bread with a good crust, such as a sourdough or a traditional Portuguese bread, is ideal for scooping the cheese.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Remove the cheese from its packaging and place it on a serving board or plate. Allow the cheese to come to room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This is crucial for the cheese to achieve its characteristic runny texture. You'll know it's ready when the rind feels soft and the cheese inside is yielding.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 2
Using a sharp knife, carefully slice off the top rind of the cheese wheel, about 1-2 cm from the top. The goal is to create an opening to access the creamy interior without cutting too deep into the cheese itself. Discard the cut-off rind or save it for another use.
⏱️ 1 minute - 3
Once the top is removed, the rich, molten interior of the cheese will be exposed. Use pieces of crusty bread to scoop out the luscious cheese. The bread will soak up the creamy goodness beautifully.
⏱️ Ongoing as needed - 4
Continue scooping and enjoying the cheese with bread. The firmer edges of the cheese wheel can also be enjoyed by spreading the softened interior onto them.
⏱️ Ongoing
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Serra da Estrela cheese is a Protected Designation of Origin (DOP) product, ensuring its authenticity and traditional production methods.
- ✓The cheese is at its best when it is very ripe and has a distinctly runny, almost liquid center. It should feel soft and yielding when gently pressed.
- ✓Serve immediately after bringing to room temperature for the optimal creamy texture.
- ✓This cheese is traditionally enjoyed simply with good quality bread.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Experiment with different levels of ripeness; younger wheels will be firmer, while older ones will be more liquid.
- Serve with a dollop of 'marmelada' (quince paste) for a sweet and savory contrast.