Monte Veronese
Monte Veronese is a creamy and robust cheese that hails from the stunningly picturesque Italian region of Veneto. Crafted with meticulous care, these raw cow’s milk wheels are given a protracted ageing process that can last anywhere between 3 to 10 months, imparting an undeniably distinct flavour and aroma. First made in the 12th century by monks of the Abbey of Monteverone, it was then granted its prestigious Denominazione di Origine Protetta (Protected Designation of Origin) status in 1985.
The wheels themselves bear a smooth, glossy rind that’s usually a uniform rich mahogany - as well as a fleshy interior of ivory. This bright interior is scattered with fine-beaded eyes, making for an evocative visual element. And the taste and aromas found within packs a flavorful punch; a distillation of essence and flavor befitting this time-honored specialty. Aromas of cooked milk, butter and yoghurt, coupled with a savory, lactic tang, dominate. On the palate, expect a balanced dried-fruit sweetness and a lingering pang of acidity.
Monte Veronese isn’t only a delightful snack, plebeian pairings such as crackers and olives; its densely textured nature also makes it perfect for grating and shaving over salads, pastas, and soups, lending them an extra layer of complexity. As one might expect, it pairs especially nicely with a good bottle of Soave or Amarone, two local Venetian specialties. For something completely different, a cold glass of barley or almond milk can provide a surprisingly complementary and refreshing contrast.
Mere words cannot do justice to the savory majesty of Monte Veronese, and there’s really nothing quite like experiencing one of Italy’s most cherished flavor profiles firsthand. Inimitable and unmistakable, this cheese has been enjoyed for centuries and will continue to delight generations to come.
Monte Veronese recipes
Amazing Monte Veronese recipes sourced from the web.
The origin of Monte Veronese
Deep in the Italian Alps lies the remarkable region of Verona, a place where the secrets of one of the country's most treasured dishes, the Monte Veronese, are buried. Passed down through the generations since its inception in the 12th century, this exquisite blend of melted cheese, diced mushrooms and crushed pepper has come to be known as a symbol of Italian culinary culture.
In the early days of its development, the Monte Veronese was a simple dish crafted from sheep's milk, mushrooms gathered from the local flora and an assortment of spices and herbs, all melted together over a slow flame. As time passed and the dish began to evolve, the recipes for Monte Veronese became more sophisticated, with fresh Pecorino cheese gradually replacing the sheep's milk and myriad tweaks to the dish ensuring its steady growth in popularity.
It was only when the wealthy and powerful families of Verona got a taste of the now famous dish that its true potential was unlocked. With their influence, chefs were able to experiment with more exotic ingredients, including truffles, tomatoes and jalapenos, and a plethora of new recipes were created. The addition of these ingredients not only infused the Monte Veronese with more flavour but also elevated it to a more refined level, making it a popular item on the tables of wealthy households.
Today, the Monte Veronese remains a signature dish of Italian cuisine, to be revelled in every time it passes across a dinner table. Drawing from centuries of gastronomic heritage, it carries with it the tradition and culture of an ancient region, bestowing upon its fortunate eaters a unique and delectable experience.
Types of Monte Veronese
Ah, the smell of Monte Veronese wafts through the streets like a fragrant dream. It's a classic Italian dish that's been delighting palates for centuries, and its many permutations have made it a hit all over the world. Whether eaten hot or cold, with a twist of lemon or simply as is, Monte Veronese is a veritable cornucopia of flavors.
The most basic version of Monte Veronese features ricotta cheese and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, with the two combined to form a gooey and delicious treat. This can come in many styles, from the traditional ricotta and Parmigiano-Reggiano mix, to variations using an assortment of other cheese varieties and even herbs or vegetables. This combination of textures and flavors makes for a unique dish each time.
Another popular variation on Monte Veronese is the Monte Veronese Tart. This delightful little tart is made with a mixture of ricotta, Parmigiano-Reggiano, and a hint of nutmeg, and baked to create a crunchy and cheesy exterior. The perfect accompaniment to a glass of pinot grigio, this tart is sure to become a favorite of your friends and family.
If you're looking for something a little more hearty, try the Monte Veronese Rustico. This is a rustic dish that features a layer of potato and onion slices, topped with ricotta and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, and then topped with a smooth tomato sauce. This hearty meal is sure to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites.
No matter which Monte Veronese variation you choose, it's sure to be a winner. So next time you have a hankering for an Italian classic, why not give this old favorite a try? You won't regret it!