Oravský korbáčik

Oravský korbáčik is a traditional cheese from the Orava region in the Slovak Republic. It is a steamed cheese product that can be smoked or unsmoked, shaped like a small whip. The cheese is made by steaming fermented, partially ripened lump cheese, which is then stretched into string-like strands and plaited. The cheese has a stringy texture and is known for its unique shape. Smoked varieties have a golden yellow color and a smoky aroma, while unsmoked ones are white to creamy white. The cheese is made from cow's milk, either raw or pasteurized, and contains at least 25% fat in the dry matter. Oravský korbáčik is a protected geographical indication (PGI) product, highlighting its cultural and traditional significance in the region.

Key Facts

Country of Origin	Slovakia
Specific Origin	Orava river basin, Orava region
Protection	PGI (2009)
Milk Type	Cow's milk
Milk Treatment	Raw or pasteurized
Fat Content	Not less than 25% by weight in the dry matter
Texture	Stringy, elastic consistency, firmish but not hard
Flavor	Milky, pleasantly cheesy, savory, mildly acidulous
Aroma	Smoked varieties have a smoky aroma
Colors	White to creamy white for unsmoked; slightly yellow to golden yellow for smoked
Forms	Steamed cheese, smoked or unsmoked, shaped like a little whip