Ep 2. Traditional Galician Cheese: Spain
- September 22, 2014
- 23 min
Cheese Slices season 7 episode 2 is entitled "Traditional Galician Cheese: Spain." In this episode, cheese expert and host Will Studd takes viewers on a journey through the region of Galicia in northwest Spain to learn about traditional cheese-making practices and the unique cheeses that are produced there.
Studd begins his adventure in the town of Arzúa, which is known for producing one of Galicia's most famous cheeses, Queixo Arzúa-Ulloa. He meets with local cheesemaker Lino Carballeira, who teaches him about the history of the cheese and shows him how it is made using raw cow's milk.
Next, Studd visits another nearby town called Teo, where he discovers Tetilla cheese. This cheese is named for its shape, which resembles a breast ("teta" in Spanish). Studd meets with a family of cheesemakers who have been producing Tetilla cheese for generations. They explain the importance of using high-quality raw milk and reveal some of the secrets to their family recipe.
Moving further into the countryside, Studd makes his way to the Cebreiro mountains, where he discovers two more unique Galician cheeses. The first is San Simón cheese, which is smoked over birch wood to give it a distinct flavor. The second is a cheese known as Cebreiro, which is made from a blend of cow's and goat's milk and has a creamy texture.
Throughout the episode, Studd also explores the cultural significance of cheese in Galicia. He meets with locals who share their family recipes and stories about how cheese has played a role in their daily lives for generations. He also explores the connection between cheese and the region's cuisine, as he tries traditional Galician dishes like empanadas and filloas, which are both made using local cheeses.
Overall, "Traditional Galician Cheese: Spain" is a fascinating exploration of the unique cheeses and cheese-making traditions of Galicia. Studd's passion for cheese and his engaging storytelling make this episode a must-watch for anyone who loves dairy products or is interested in learning more about local food cultures.