Chaource cheese facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Chaource
Country of origin	France
Region, town	Aube, Yonne
Source of milk	Cows
Pasteurised	Depends on variety
Texture	Soft-ripened
Fat content	~50%
Aging time	2–4 weeks
Certification	French AOC 1977
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Chaource (French pronunciation: [ʃa.uʁs] ) is a famous French cheese. It first came from the village of Chaource in the Champagne-Ardenne region of France.

This cheese is made from cow's milk. It has a round shape, usually about 10 centimeters across and 6 centimeters tall. Each cheese weighs either 250 grams or 450 grams. The inside of Chaource cheese is soft and creamy, with a light color. It has a white, fuzzy rind on the outside.

The Story of Chaource Cheese

Chaource cheese has a long history. People have been making it in the village of Chaource since the Middle Ages. Even today, cheese is still made there. Some are made by small, local cheesemakers, while others are produced in larger factories.

Where Chaource Cheese is Made

This special cheese can only be made in a specific area. This area includes parts of two French regions: Aube and Yonne. This rule helps keep the cheese unique and high quality.

How Chaource Cheese is Made

Chaource cheese has a special status in France called Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC). This means its quality and origin are protected by law. It was recognized as an AOC cheese in 1970, and the rules for making it have been strictly followed since 1977.

Important Rules for Making Chaource

The AOC rules for Chaource cheese are very strict. They make sure every cheese is made the right way.

• The milk must curdle slowly, taking at least 12 hours. This process is mostly natural.
• The liquid (whey) must drain from the cheese slowly and on its own.

Aging and Taste

Chaource cheese is made in a way similar to Brie cheese. It usually ages for two to four weeks. Most people enjoy Chaource when it is still young. The inside of the cheese is lightly salted. It has a mild taste and a special texture that melts in your mouth. At least 50% of the cheese is fat.

Milk Used for Chaource

The rules allow cheesemakers to use either pasteurized milk or unpasteurized milk. Pasteurization is a process that heats milk to kill germs.

What Chaource Cheese Tastes Like

Chaource cheese has a unique flavor. Some people describe it as having a slightly bitter taste, like nutshells. It can also taste a bit earthy, similar to the local wines. Finding the right food or drink to pair with Chaource can be fun, as it can also be a bit salty.

See also

In Spanish: Chaource (queso) para niños