Pecorino siciliano facts for kids

Pecorino Siciliano DOP is a special kind of cheese from the Italian island of Sicily. It's made from sheep milk and has a firm texture. This cheese has a very long history, dating back to ancient Greek times. People back then thought it was one of the best cheeses in the world!

What is Pecorino Siciliano?

Pecorino Siciliano is a pecorino style cheese. This means it's made from sheep's milk, just like its cousin, Pecorino Romano. However, Pecorino Siciliano isn't as famous outside of Italy as Pecorino Romano. It's a semi-hard white cheese. It usually comes in a round, cylindrical shape and weighs about 12 kilograms (which is about 26 pounds).

Where Does it Come From?

This cheese is made all over the island of Sicily. Some of the main areas where it's produced include the provinces of Agrigento, Caltanissetta, Enna, Trapani, and Palermo. Each region adds its own touch to the cheese.

What Makes it Special?

Pecorino Siciliano has a rich history and a special certification that protects its quality.

A Bit of History

The story of Pecorino Siciliano goes back thousands of years. Ancient Greeks, who lived in Sicily, were already making and enjoying this cheese. It was highly valued even then, showing how important it has been to the island's culture and food for a very long time.

How is it Certified?

This cheese has two important certifications that protect its name and quality:

• It received the Denominazione di Origine Protetta (DOC) status in 1955. This Italian certification ensures that the cheese is made in a specific way and in a specific area.
• Later, in 1996, it also got the Protected Designation of Origin (DOP) status from the European Union. This means that only cheese made in Sicily, following traditional methods, can be called Pecorino Siciliano DOP. It's like a special badge of authenticity!

See also

In Spanish: Pecorino siciliano para niños