What is Asiago Cheese? A Detailed Guide

Do you love cheese and are always looking for something new to try? Then you won’t want to miss out on Asiago — an Italian, cheese lover both an italian cow’s whole milk cheese and sheep’s whole milk cheese worldwide that has become a favorite of cheese lovers around the world.

A firm, textured, nutty cheese with a delicate yet slightly sharp flavor, it’s no wonder why this aged delight is reaching more people every day! With its firm texture and complex flavor profile that ranges from nutty to salty depending on how long it ages.

There’s so much to explore when it comes to aged cheeses, hard cheeses, and Asiago cheese makers. So join us as we take about what is asiago cheese? And discover what makes it so unique.

What Is Asiago Cheese?

Asiago cheese is a popular Italian cheese that originates from the Asiago plateau in the Veneto region of Northern Italy. It is named after the region where it was first produced and has become well-known and widely enjoyed both in Italy and around the world.

The cheese is made from cow’s milk and comes in different varieties, each with its own distinct characteristics.

History of Asiago cheese

Asiago cheese has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages and is known for its unique characteristics. This semi-hard cheese boasts a nutty, slightly sweet flavor and a firm flavor that many find appealing.

Made from whole, italian cow’s milk cheese and sheep’s milk cheese only, Asiago cheese is produced by heating the whole, whole italian cheeses and cow’s milk cheese first, then skim milk and allowing the hard italian cheeses and skim milk to curdle before pressing the curds into molds.

The cheese then ages for several months, developing its signature taste and consistency. Asiago cheese, production began as a small-scale endeavor, with farmers making the cheese in their homes or small dairies.

What is the origin of asiago cheese?

The name “Asiago” comes from the town of Asiago, which is situated at the center of the asiago plateau itself. Over time, Asiago cheese gained popularity beyond the designation of origin first asiago plateau itself, becoming a staple in Italian cuisine and eventually gaining recognition worldwide.

Asiago cheese, production by DOP receives a designation of origin from Consorzio Tutela Formaggio Asiago, based in Vicenza.

What are the Different types of Asiago cheese — from fresh to aged varieties?

Here are different types of Asiago cheese:

Asiago Pressato (Fresh Asiago): This type of Asiago cheese is the youngest variety, aged only 20 to 40 days. It has a soft and, creamy texture andild, slightly sweet flavor.

Asiago Mezzano (Medium-aged Asiago): Aged for 3 to 8 months, Asiago Mezzano has a firmer texture than fresh Asiago. Its flavor is more pronounced, with a hint of sharpness.

Asiago Vecchio (Old Asiago): With an aging period of 9 to 18 months, Old Asiago boasts a crumbly texture and a strong and robust.

Asiago d’Allevo Stravecchio (Extra-aged Asiago): The most aged variety of Asiago cheese, asiago Stravecchio is aged for over 18 months. Its hard, crumbly texture and intense, complex flavor make it a popular choice for cheese connoisseurs.

What’s The Difference Between Parmesan, Romano, and Asiago Cheese?

Parmesan, Romano, Parmigiano Reggiano, and Asiago are all Italian cheeses that share some similarities but have different textures and production methods.

Parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese is a generic term for a complex, granular cheese inspired by the original Italian Parmigiano Reggiano. this Italian cheese is typically made outside Italy, using cow’s milk. The flavor is nutty and salty, with a grainy texture.

Romano cheese: Romano cheese is a complex semi soft, salty cheese made from both italian cow’s milk cheese and sheep’s milk cheese (Pecorino Romano is made from sheep and cow’s milk cheese)). It has a sharp, tangy flavor and is often used as a grating cheese.

Asiago cheese: Asiago cheese comes in various stages of ageing, ranging from soft and creamy (Asiago Pressato) to hard and crumbly (Asiago d’Alene). Made from cow and sheep’s milk, in the Asiago Plateau region of Italy, Asiago has a milder, slightly sweet, and nutty flavor compared to Parmesan and Romano.

Can asiago cheese go bad?

Like all dairy products sold fresh though, Asiago cheese can go bad over time due to its perishable nature. The shelf life of this cheese depends on its type and storage conditions, with aged Asiago typically lasting longer than fresh Asiago cheese.

To prolong its freshness and quality, it is crucial to store Asiago cheese properly. This involves wrapping the cheese in wax paper or cheese paper and placing it in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag before refrigerating.

When Asiago cheese goes bad, it may exhibit signs such as an unpleasant odor, mold growth, excessive dryness, or discoloration. If you notice any of these indicators, you should discard the cheese to avoid potential health risks associated with consuming spoiled food.

How to Use Asiago Cheese in Different Recipes?

Here are some recipes and some ways to incorporate fresh Asiago cheese into your dishes:

1. Pasta: Grate aged Asiago over pasta dishes such as spaghetti, fettuccine Alfredo, or lasagna for a rich, nutty flavor.
2. Risotto: Stir in shredded Asiago cheese into your risotto during the last few minutes of cooking for a creamy, savory touch.
3. Sandwiches and Paninis: Use sliced fresh Asiago or aged Asiago in sandwiches, paninis, or grilled cheese for a deliciously melty and flavorful addition.
4. Pizza: Sprinkle grated or shredded Asiago cheese on top of your pizza, either alone or in combination with other cheeses like mozzarella or fontina.
5. Soups: Garnish creamy soups, like tomato or potato soup, with a handful of grated Asiago for added depth and richness.

What are the Benefits of Eating Asiago Cheese?

Asiago cheese offers several benefits due to its nutritional fat content. Some of the key benefits of eating Asiago cheese include:

1. High-quality protein: Asiago cheese is a good source of complete protein, providing all the essential amino acids your body needs for growth, maintenance, and repair of tissues.
2. Rich in calcium: Asiago cheese is an excellent source of calcium.
3. Supports gut health: Aged Asiago cheese contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that promote a healthy balance of gut flora.
4. Low in lactose: Aged Asiago cheese is low in lactose due to the cheese-making process, making it a suitable option for individuals with lactose intolerance or sensitivity.
5. Satiety: Cheese, including Asiago, is high in protein and fat, which can help you feel fuller for longer, potentially aiding in weight management.

Is Asiago Cheese Worth Trying Out?

Yes, Asiago cheese is definitely worth trying out. With its distinct flavor profile and versatile culinary applications, Asiago offers a unique taste experience that appeals to both cheese lover, connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike.

Conclusion

Asiago cheese is a unique and flavorful cheese with a wide variety of uses. It has all the characteristics of a quality Italian cheese — it contains a pleasing flavor, creamy, smooth texture throughout, and tempting aroma.

Whether italy that you eat it as part of a snack or use it in your cooking to add an extra layer of flavor, Asiago can be enjoyed in many different ways. And what’s more is that no two pieces or types of Asiago are ever the same — each contains its own unique taste and texture.

So if you’re looking for something special to include in your pasta recipes next time, make sure to consider Asiago cheese!