Cheese From Around the World

Vocabulary

• Esteemed
• Terrior
• Lauded
• Palates
• Incorporated

Article

Cheese, a dairy delicacy esteemed worldwide, presents a captivating array of textures, flavors, and traditions. From the sharp, crumbly profile of Cheddar—originating in England—to the complex, nutty nuances of Parmigiano-Reggiano from Italy, each cheese reflects its terroir and production methods. Cheddar, perhaps one of the most recognizable cheeses globally, varies significantly depending on aging: young varieties boast a milder taste, while aged Cheddar develops a rich, robust flavor that appeals to connoisseurs.

In stark contrast lies the creamy, pungent allure of blue cheese. With its characteristic blue-green veins, this cheese’s unique flavor profile is achieved through the introduction of Penicillium cultures during production. Varieties such as Roquefort and Gorgonzola showcase the diverse methods of crafting blue cheese, each bringing distinct regional characteristics.

However, among the more conventional options, the world harbors extraordinary rarities. One such example is Casu Marzu, a traditional Sardinian cheese notorious for its live insect inhabitants—maggots that aid in fermentation and provide a distinctly robust flavor. The cheese is indeed a cultural symbol, though its consumption raises ethical and health-related debates.

Moving beyond these extremes, we find equally intriguing cheeses like Époisses, a French washed-rind cheese, lauded for its intense aroma and creamy consistency. Then there’s Ossau-Iraty, a Basque cheese known for its rich taste, derived from sheep’s milk, that offers a delightful experience of the French countryside.

From the familiar to the obscure, cheese embodies a remarkable journey through cultures and palates around the globe. Each cheese tells a story, celebrating age-old traditions, regional diversity, and the artisanal craft that transforms mere milk into a culinary treasure. Whether enjoyed on a cheese board or incorporated into gourmet recipes, cheese continues to be a versatile staple that unites people across different continents.

Summarize the article in your own words.

Speaking

• What do you think of cheese?
• How important is cheese in your culture?
• Which of the cheeses mentioned in the text would you try?
• Would you like to try making cheese someday?
• What is the best dish you’ve ever eaten?

Writing

• Imagine that you are a chef who must design a cheese board. Write a description of what it will be like. What types of cheese will you select? Will there be others foods, like bread or fruit?

Listening

• Describe what happened in this video. Which cheese do you think was better?