Manchego cheese hails from the picturesque La Mancha region of central Spain.
Manchego cheese, from La Mancha in , is perhaps the most famous Spanish cheese in the world. Made from sheep's milk, it can be found fresh, cured or aged. Aged Manchego cheese, or Manchego Viejo, has been aged for a year and has a nutty, mildly piquant flavor and a firm texture. It can be used in a number of ways.
With Wine
Manchego Viejo is classically paired with certain Spanish wines and sherries. The fat content of the cheese helps it stand up to robust red wines such as rioja, while mellowing out the fruit flavors. Manchego also pairs with Spanish Cava, a sparkling wine with a crispness to cut the fat of the cheese. Sherry, particularly dry Manzanilla, also goes well with aged Manchego, intensifying its aromas.
With Fruit
Another classically Spanish way to serve aged Manchego is with fruit. Fruits with deep flavor, such as figs and dates, are a good match with Manchego. The most well-known fruit pairing is quince, usually served in the form of a paste, called membrillo. Quince is a sweet fruit with a flowery taste that enhances the nuttiness of Manchego.
With Cured Meat
While any cured meat will taste good when combined with Manchego Viejo, one in particular pairs to perfection: Serrano ham, or Jamon Serrano. Jamon Serrano is ham that has been rolled in salt and hung to cure for a year or more. It is produced in many parts of Spain and is widely eaten throughout the country. Traditionally it is served alongside aged Manchego with olives and crusty bread.
As a Grated Topping
With a similar texture to Parmesan, aged Manchego can be used in the same ways. It is often grated over soups, stews and on top of casseroles. Instead of grating, it can also be shaved into wide, thin strips and placed on top of salads.
In Sandwiches
While aged Manchego is does not melt as well as younger Manchego, it is still delicious in hot and cold sandwiches. It can be layered with prosciutto or Serrano ham, olive tapenade or roasted peppers for a savory sandwich, but it is also delicious served on bread coated in fruit preserves for a sweeter sandwich.
Tags: aged Manchego, Manchego cheese, Manchego Viejo, aged Manchego, aged Manchego with, central Spain, Jamon Serrano