Tuma Cheese, also known as Tuma Fritta in Sicilian, is a type of cheese that originated in Sicily, Italy. It is made from sheep’s milk, and is a staple in Sicilian cuisine.
Tuma Cheese is known for its unique texture and flavor, making it a popular choice for many dishes and recipes.
Types of Tuma Cheese
There are several different types of Tuma Cheese, each with its own unique characteristics and uses.
Tuma Caciocavallo:
This type of Tuma Cheese is a semi-hard cheese that is cylindrical in shape. It has a smooth, shiny rind and a creamy, pale yellow interior.
Tuma Caciocavallo is typically aged for around two months and has a nutty, slightly sweet flavor. It is often used as a table cheese or in sandwiches.
Tuma Ragusana:
Tuma Ragusana is a soft, fresh cheese that is typically aged for only a few days. It has a creamy, white interior and a thin, edible rind.
It has a tangy, slightly sour flavor and is often used as a spread or in salads.
Tuma Perla Nera:
This type of Tuma Cheese is a semi-hard cheese that is cylindrical in shape, similar to Tuma Caciocavallo. It has a dark gray-black rind with a creamy, white interior.
Tuma Perla Nera is aged for around two months, has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor and is often used in cooking.
Production and Processing
The traditional method of making Tuma Cheese is a labor-intensive process that involves heating the sheep’s milk to a specific temperature, adding rennet to curdle the milk, and then draining the whey. The cheese is then shaped and salted before being aged in a cool, humid environment.
Today, many Tuma Cheese producers use modern production methods, such as pasteurization and the use of commercial starter cultures. However, many traditional producers still use the traditional method to produce Tuma Cheese.
The aging and ripening process of Tuma Cheese can vary depending on the type of cheese and the producer.
Some Tuma Cheese is aged for only a few days, while others are aged for several months. During the aging process, the cheese is regularly turned and brushed to ensure that the rind develops properly.
Nutritional Value
Tuma Cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, as well as other essential vitamins and minerals. It also contains healthy fats and cholesterol. The nutritional value can vary depending on the type of Tuma Cheese and how it is processed.
Compared to other types of cheese, Tuma Cheese tends to be lower in fat and calories. This makes it a good choice for those who are trying to watch their fat and calorie intake.
Health benefits of consuming Tuma Cheese include strong bones, healthy teeth, and a lower risk of osteoporosis.
In conclusion, Tuma Cheese is a unique and flavorful type of cheese that originated in Sicily. It is made from sheep’s milk and comes in several different types, each with its own unique characteristics and uses.
The traditional method of making Tuma Cheese is labor-intensive, but the result is a cheese that is lower in fat and calories than other types of cheese. Tuma Cheese is a good source of protein, calcium and other essential vitamins and minerals.
Tasting and Pairing
Tuma Cheese has a unique flavor and texture that makes it a popular choice for many dishes and recipes. The flavor and texture can vary depending on the type of Tuma Cheese and how it is aged.
Tuma Caciocavallo has a nutty, slightly sweet flavor, Tuma Ragusana has a tangy, slightly sour flavor, and Tuma Perla Nera has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor.
When it comes to pairing Tuma Cheese with wine, it is best to pair it with a full-bodied red wine such as a Nero d’Avola or a Syrah. The wine should have enough structure to stand up to the bold flavor of the cheese.
Tuma Cheese also pairs well with bread and fruits. The cheese’s nutty and slightly sweet flavor pairs nicely with the sweetness of the fruit, and the texture of the cheese is complemented by the crusty texture of the bread.
Tips for Storing and Serving Tuma Cheese
To store Tuma Cheese, wrap it in wax paper or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It should be consumed within a week of purchase, as it is a fresh cheese.
When serving Tuma Cheese, it is best to let it come to room temperature before serving. This allows the flavors and texture to fully develop.
Conclusion
Tuma Cheese is a unique and flavorful type of cheese that originated in Sicily. It is made from sheep’s milk and comes in several different types, each with its own unique characteristics and uses.
The traditional method of making Tuma Cheese is labor-intensive, but the result is a cheese that is lower in fat and calories than other types of cheese. Tuma Cheese is a good source of protein, calcium and other essential vitamins and minerals.
Tuma Cheese pairs well with wine, bread, and fruits, and it is a great choice for those who are looking for a flavorful and healthy option.
What is the difference between Tuma Caciocavallo and Tuma Perla Nera?
Tuma Caciocavallo is a semi-hard cheese that is cylindrical in shape, has a smooth shiny rind and a creamy pale yellow interior. It is aged for around 2 months, has a nutty slightly sweet flavor and is often used as a table cheese or in sandwiches.
On the other hand, Tuma Perla Nera is also a semi-hard cheese that is cylindrical in shape, but has a dark gray-black rind with a creamy white interior. Tuma Perla Nera is aged for around 2 months, has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor and is often used in cooking.
Can I use Tuma Cheese in cooking?
Yes, Tuma Cheese is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes. Tuma Caciocavallo and Tuma Perla Nera are particularly well suited for cooking as they have a nutty flavor that compliments many dishes.
How should I store Tuma Cheese?
Tuma Cheese should be wrapped in wax paper or plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator. It should be consumed within a week of purchase, as it is a fresh cheese.
Can Tuma Cheese be frozen?
Tuma Cheese can be frozen, but it is not recommended as freezing can change the texture and flavor of the cheese. If you need to store Tuma Cheese for an extended period of time, it is best to keep it in the refrigerator and consume it within a week of purchase.
Is Tuma Cheese suitable for vegetarians?
Tuma Cheese is not suitable for vegetarians as it is made from sheep’s milk. It also contains animal rennet as an ingredient.