Vastedda della Valle del Belice Cheese

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#45 of 377 cheese types
Vastedda della Valle del Belice Cheese

Lele1989, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Vastedda della Valle del Belice is a unique sheep's milk cheese from Sicily, distinctive because it is one of the few stretched-curd sheep cheeses. It is made from raw, whole milk and has a smooth, elastic texture with a mild, slightly tangy flavor. This cheese is typically consumed fresh and is often savored simply with olive oil and black pepper.

Key Facts About Vastedda della Valle del Belice Cheese

Country of Origin Italy
Specific Origin Districts of Agrigento, Trapani, Palermo in Sicily
Certification PDO (2007)
Milk Type Raw whole sheep’s milk
Milk Treatment Heated
Rind None (free from rind)
Flavor Lightly sourish but not spicy
Colors Ivory white
Forms Truncated conical, 6–7 inches diameter, 17–24 ounces weight
Age 12 to 48 hours ready for consumption
Rennet Type Lamb rennet