In our search to offer products that go beyond the normal rule we have come across the Tupí cheese. Curious where it exists, this delicacy is made in the traditional way in the north of Catalonia. But really the most relevant thing about it is the story that accompanies it because its origin is very unique and even surprising. We are not talking about a common dairy derivative, at all, since it is presented in the recipient from which it takes its name and. When tasting it ... you also take a shot! Below we reveal more about him.
Origin from reuse
This cheese is one of the most traditional and Catalan that exists, since its origin is linked to the territory and a word that comes from Catalan. To be more exact, its origin is in the riparian region of Pallars, north of the province of Lleida, between the Montsec mountain range and the Pyrenees. "Tupí" means small clay pot because it was in this container that a product that is already exquisite and highly coveted began to become a reality.
Although it has not remained in the past either, since as generations have passed, it has innovated with him in a specific aspect. Later we will explain this point because… it might be impossible to have it at home now!
The point is that the Tupí cheese was born from the idea of some shepherds to take advantage of the remains of other cheeses, so it could be considered reuse and reuse. It arose from the mixture of leftover pieces (so as not to waste those that were flowered or had dried) in a glass or small clay pot. A liqueur was added to this before being allowed to ferment. This liquid ingredient helped disinfection and kneading while providing its particular flavor.
Afterwards, the thick dough was left to ripen with a cloth on top for two to three months. The result? A cream over spread than to taste wedge, due to its texture. Also by its quantity, which was marked by the capacity of the container. Currently its most characteristic essence is maintained using a container similar to the router for its commercialization, although it could be left to ferment in larger jars (tupines). What has changed in some cheese factories is the way they are made, with modern machines that were not available before.
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Characteristics of Tupí cheese
Although initially it was made only with cheese greenhouses (of sheep), later it was formed with another type of cheese remains of goat and cow. Its texture is totally mildIt has no crust and its flavor is very powerful. Between touches spicy, the flavors of the liquor that it incorporates, be it anise or brandy, are appreciated. These two are the most common but can now be made even with digging raw nature.
So you get a Tupí cheese still with more Catalan stamp. Some cheese-producing families of this delicacy add their personal touch. For example, the cheese factory Vilavella de Basturs (Lleida) uses a sweet liquor called ratafia which is made with green walnuts and aromatic herbs.
A curiosity falls on his aroma. It turns out that in the past the smell that this cheese gave off was enormously strongSomething that did not provoke her rejection, however. With the evolution of the tastes of consumers and the most turóphiles, the producers began to adapt to them. So they innovated with a scent softer, fine for smell. Now enjoy this product with the aromatic power that I had in the past would be unthinkable!
The Tupí de Sort
The historical capital of the Pallars region is Black, current capital of the Pallars Sobirá region and place where the most recognizable Tupí cheese by expert hands on this product. In this Catalan municipality it is also called «Llenguat«, Because before it was obtained from greenhouses (sawn) quoted above. Here it is made from semi-cured and cured cheeses with EVOO and pomace. In the cheese factory Threes of Sort It is sold in three different quantities: 80 grams, 150 grams and up to 1 kilogram.
In conclusion, this is the story of a very original cheese delicacy. If you want to taste the Tupí cheese from Sort, we recommend you buy it and use it in a slice of bread with tomato or honey. This way you can soften the powerful flavor a bit!
