Ossau-Iraty
A firm, nutty cheese made from sheep’s milk in the French Basque and Béarn highlands. It is famous for its classic pairing with quince paste.
What Is Ossau-Iraty?
Ossau-Iraty is a hard to semi-hard cheese made from sheep’s milk in the Basque Country and Béarn highlands of southwestern France. It takes its name from the region’s Ossau Valley and Iraty Forest and is a geographically protected product.
Its interior is ivory-colored, firm, and rich; its flavor is nutty, slightly sweet, and intense. It is traditionally served with the region’s quince paste; this sweet-and-savory pairing has become a classic.
Ossau-Iraty Nutrition
Like other hard sheep’s milk cheeses, Ossau-Iraty contains about 400 kcal of energy per 100 grams and is high in protein and fat; it is very rich in calcium. The values are approximate and based on a similar profile.
How Should Ossau-Iraty Be Consumed?
Because it is high in fat, salt, and calories, Ossau-Iraty should be consumed in moderation. For versions made with raw milk, pregnant people and those with weakened immune systems should choose a pasteurized version.
This information is general; Ossau-Iraty is a food, not a medical treatment.
How to Choose Ossau-Iraty
Good Ossau-Iraty has a firm, ivory-colored interior that retains some moisture. Its rind should be dry and natural, and it should have a pleasant, nutty aroma; the interior should not be bone-dry or chalky.
- The interior should be firm, ivory-colored, and moist
- The rind should be dry and natural
- The aroma should be pleasant and nutty
How to Store Ossau-Iraty
Refrigerate Ossau-Iraty with the rind on, wrapped in breathable cheese paper; wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap can compromise its moisture. Bring it to room temperature before serving to open up its flavor.
How to Use Ossau-Iraty in the Kitchen
Ossau-Iraty is most often served on a cheese board with quince paste and walnuts; it is also grated over salads, pasta, and gratins. Its intense flavor stands out even in small amounts.
Why Is Ossau-Iraty Served with Quince?
The cheese’s salty, nutty intensity is balanced by the sweet-tangy flavor of quince paste; this classic two-flavor pairing complements them both.
Frequently Asked Questions
What milk is Ossau-Iraty made from?
It is made from the milk of local mountain-breed sheep; their milk gives the cheese its nutty, intense character.
What does Ossau-Iraty taste like?
It is nutty, slightly sweet, and intense; its flavor deepens and becomes slightly sharper as it ages.
Can Ossau-Iraty be melted?
Yes; it can be grated into gratins and pasta, though it is most often enjoyed as a table cheese.