Ever thought cheese could have a rebel? A rule-breaker? Well, meet Époisses. Some call it the "bad boy" of the cheese world. It’s got a reputation, that's for sure.
Stinky, But Lovable
Let's address the elephant in the room. Or, perhaps, the Époisses in the fridge. This cheese smells... intense. It's often compared to barnyards or sweaty socks, but don't let that scare you!
That pungent aroma is part of its charm. It’s like that eccentric uncle everyone talks about but secretly loves.
A Wash in Brandy?
What makes Époisses so unique? It all comes down to how it's made. The magic starts with washing the rind in Marc de Bourgogne, a type of brandy.
Imagine a cheese getting a boozy spa treatment! This process encourages special bacteria to grow, developing that signature aroma and sticky, orange rind.
The alcohol also helps keep the cheese moist and creamy.
From Monks to Your Mouth
The story of Époisses is quite interesting. It began centuries ago in a small village in Burgundy, France.
Cistercian monks, known for their cheese-making skills, perfected the recipe. They sure knew how to make a unique cheese!
The cheese nearly disappeared after World War II. Thankfully, some passionate cheesemakers revived it. Now, Époisses is enjoyed worldwide.
The Secret to Enjoying the "Bad Boy"
So, how do you tame this "bad boy" of cheese? First, let it come to room temperature. This will unleash its full flavor and soften its texture.
Pair it with something sweet, like fig jam or honey. The sweetness contrasts nicely with the cheese's saltiness and funkiness.
A crusty baguette is essential for scooping up the gooey goodness. Some people also enjoy it with a glass of Burgundy wine.
More Than Just a Stinky Cheese
Époisses is an experience. It's a conversation starter. And it's a reminder that sometimes, the most interesting things in life are a little bit weird.
It challenges our expectations of what cheese should be. Forget mild cheddar, this is a cheese with personality!
So, the next time you see Époisses, don't be afraid to give it a try. You might just discover your new favorite cheese. You might even become a "bad boy" cheese convert.
A Cheese with a Cult Following
There's a devoted fan base for Époisses. People who appreciate its unique character and bold flavor. They embrace its quirks, its smells, and its overall "bad boy" attitude.
Many cheesemongers have great stories on their customers' reaction to this cheese. Their reaction when tasting it for the first time is always very interesting.
This cheese is one of a kind. It is a memorable experience.
