Discover the unique São Jorge Cheese

Known not only in Portugal, but throughout the world, São Jorge cheese is a typical Azorean specialty, more specifically from São Jorge Island. They say that the production of this irresistible cheese started about 5 centuries ago, provided by the fantastic weather conditions both for the production of pasture and for the introduction of cattle, which led to the production of cheese, in order to take advantage of the excess of the production of milk.

Our Apple, Raisins and Cinammon Jam it is perfect to accompany Goat’s Cheese.

How this cheese is made

São Jorge cheese comes from raw cow’s milk, produced on the island of São Jorge. Animal rennet is added to the milk after the addition of whey obtained from the previous manufacture. This serves as an acidification aid. The rennet is left to rest until it reaches the desired consistency, from which the whey will be extracted. In dry mass, salt is added. The curd is pressed and left to stand for 30 days at room temperature, then passed to air-conditioned curing chambers, where it remains for 90 days.

Unique flavor of the Azores

São Jorge cheese is known for its hard or semi-hard paste, yellowish color and whose flavor has a very unique character, being a little spicy and with a strong aroma. It was these characteristics that made this cheese an international success, as it differs from other cheeses produced in Portugal.

How to cut this cheese

This type of cheese has a hard paste and with this type of shape, to cut it you must start by cutting across the front. At the end, make vertical cuts along the rind. There are specific knives for each type of cheese, however, if you do not have the appropriate knives, choose a knife with a smooth blade, without serrations.

How to enjoy São Jorge cheese

This cheese is excellent by itself, as it has a unique flavor that makes it a hit among cheese lovers. However, for those looking for unique combinations, we recommend you to enjoy this cheese with a jam specially created to pair cheeses like the São Jorge cheese: Apple, Raisins and Cinnamon.

No próximo jantar com os seus amigos pode também por optar por uma simples e deliciosa tábua de queijos, pronta em 5 minutos e excelente para o convívio antes do prato principal. Veja a nossa sugestão de uma tábua de queijos aqui.