Ennstaler Steirerkas Cheese

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About Ennstaler Steirerkas Cheese

Ennstaler Steirerkas is a traditional cheese from Austria, specifically from the district of Liezen in the north-western part of Styria. It is a sour milk cheese made from raw or pasteurized skimmed cow's milk. The cheese is formed into a truncated cone weighing up to 4 kg and is made without rennet, using only acid coagulation. It is known for its crumbly texture and distinctive aroma, with a sour, strong, and piquant flavor. The cheese matures over at least three weeks, developing a dry, brownish or greyish surface with a layer of green or white mold. The interior is marbled, pale brown to brown-grey, with a granular or crumbly texture. The cheese is influenced by the local alpine flora, which contributes to its unique flavor and aroma.

Key Facts

Country of Origin Austria
Specific Origin District of Liezen, north-western part of Styria
Protection PDO (2020)
Milk Type Cow's milk
Milk Treatment Raw or pasteurized skimmed milk
Fat Content 0-12% in dry matter
Moisture Content Maximum 46%
Rind Dry, brownish or greyish, covered with green or white mold
Texture Granular or crumbly to clammy
Flavor Sour, strong, piquant, spicy to sharp
Aroma Robust and spicy, with an earthy odor and mild ammonia note
Colors Surface is brownish or greyish; interior is pale brown to brown-grey
Forms Truncated cone weighing up to 4 kg
Age At least three weeks
Rennet Type Not used
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