Moliterno (cheese) facts for kids
Moliterno is a type of Italian cheese. It's made in a special way, similar to other cheeses known as "pasta filata." This Italian term means "spun paste," which describes how the cheese curds are stretched and kneaded, much like dough. This process gives the cheese its unique texture.
When Moliterno cheese is made only from sheep milk, it's called Pecorino Moliterno or Pecorino di Moliterno. The name "Pecorino" comes from the Italian word for sheep, pecora. This special version of the cheese is made in the town of Moliterno in a region of southern Italy called Basilicata.
What is Pecorino Moliterno?
Pecorino Moliterno is a hard cheese. This means it's firm and can be grated, like Parmesan. During the time it ages, called "curing," people rub olive oil on its outside. This creates a protective layer called a "rind." The rind helps keep the cheese from losing too much moisture, making it last longer and giving it a special flavor.
How Pecorino Moliterno Gets Its Shape
When Pecorino Moliterno is first made, the soft cheese is put into special baskets to drain. As it sits in these baskets, it takes on the shape of the basket's ridges. Because of this, some people call it Pecorino Incanestrato. "Incanestrato" comes from the Italian word "canestra," which means "basket." So, it's like saying "basketed sheep's cheese"!
Where Does Moliterno Cheese Come From?
Moliterno cheese has a long history! It was first made in the southern parts of Italy, in regions called Calabria and Lucania. Today, you can find it being produced mainly in the Basilicata region of Southern Italy.
