What is Squacquerone di Romagna? A Taste of Italian Tradition

Welcome to a journey into the heart of Italian gastronomy, where we unravel the secrets of one of Italy’s hidden culinary treasures – Squacquerone di Romagna. This soft, creamy cheese is as much a part of Italy’s rich cultural tapestry as the Colosseum or Da Vinci’s ‘Mona Lisa’.

Originating from the Emilia-Romagna region, known as Italy’s ‘food valley’, Squacquerone di Romagna is a testament to the country’s age-old love affair with artisanal food production.

Quick Facts About Squacquerone di Romagna

Country of Origin	Italy
Region	Emilia-Romagna
Classification	Fresh cheese, soft
AOP/PDO	Since 2012
Milk	Raw cow’s milk
Diameter	2.35 to 9.75 inches (6 to 25 cm)
Thickness	0.75 to 2 inches (2 to 5 cm)
Weight	3.5 oz to 4.5 lb (100 g to 2 kg)
Fat content	8%
Aroma	Mild, citrusy, herbal
Taste	Sweet, sour, slight saltiness that gives way to a fresh herbaceous flavor on the finish
Pairing	Piadina (flatbread) with rucola & prosciutto, risotto, caramelized figs
Texture	Creamy, flowing, spreadable
Color	White

What is Squacquerone di Romagna?

Dive into the world of Italian gastronomy and you’ll find an array of culinary gems, one of which is Squacquerone di Romagna. This creamy, soft cheese hails from the heart of Italy’s Romagna region, a place known for its fertile lands and rich food culture.

Squacquerone di Romagna is no ordinary cheese. Its texture is beautifully soft and spreadable, almost like a thick cream, and it boasts a delightfully fresh, tangy flavor that is reminiscent of the lush pastures of its homeland. It’s made from cow’s milk, with a cheese-making process that stays true to age-old traditions, lending it an authenticity that’s hard to replicate.

What sets Squacquerone di Romagna apart is its versatility. It’s a star in its own right on a cheese platter, but it also shines when used in cooking. From serving as a delightful topping on the traditional Piadina flatbread, to being a key ingredient in gourmet pasta dishes, the applications of this cheese are as vast as they are delicious.

Squacquerone di Romagna is more than just a cheese. It’s a testament to the region’s commitment to maintaining its culinary heritage, a symbol of the passion and craftsmanship of the local cheese makers. It’s a sensory journey into the very soul of Romagna, offering a taste of the Italian countryside with every bite.

Squacquerone di Romagna Tasting Notes

Texture: Squacquerone di Romagna is known for its soft, creamy and spreadable texture. It has a consistency that is almost like a thick cream or yogurt, making it a delight to spread on breads or crackers.
Color: The cheese has a clean, white hue, indicating its freshness and pure dairy origin. Its color can range from bright white to a slightly off-white, depending on the specific batch and aging process.
Aroma: This cheese emits a fresh, milky aroma. There’s a subtle hint of tanginess in the scent, reminiscent of the lactic fermentation process it undergoes during production.
Flavor: Squacquerone di Romagna is celebrated for its mild, yet slightly tangy flavor. It has a fresh taste with a delicate sweetness, and a pleasant acidity that adds a touch of complexity to its overall flavor profile.
Aftertaste: The cheese leaves a light and refreshing aftertaste. The lingering mild tanginess encourages another bite, making it an addictive addition to any cheese platter.
Mouthfeel: In the mouth, Squacquerone di Romagna feels luxuriously smooth and creamy. It melts delightfully on the tongue, releasing its full array of flavors in a satisfying culinary experience.

What Pairs Well With Squacquerone di Romagna?

Food that goes well with Squacquerone di Romagna:

Category	Food Items
Breads	Piadina Romagnola, Focaccia, Ciabatta, Sourdough Bread, Whole Grain Bread
Fruits	Figs, Pears, Grapes, Strawberries, Apples
Nuts	Almonds, Walnuts, Pistachios, Hazelnuts
Meats	Prosciutto di Parma, Salame Rosa, Mortadella, Bresaola
Condiments	Honey, Fig Jam, Olive Oil, Balsamic Vinegar
Vegetables	Grilled Eggplant, Sun-dried Tomatoes, Roasted Bell Peppers, Olives
Desserts	Fruit Tarts, Cannoli, Panna Cotta, Italian Pastries
Seafood	Smoked Salmon, Grilled Prawns, Marinated Anchovies

Also read: What Fruit Goes on a Charcuterie Board?

Beverage that goes well with Squacquerone di Romagna:

Beverage Category	Beverage Items
White Wines	Verdicchio, Trebbiano, Pignoletto, Passerina
Red Wines	Sangiovese, Lambrusco, Barbera, Nebbiolo
Sparkling Wines	Prosecco, Franciacorta, Lambrusco Grasparossa
Beers	Italian Lager, Wheat Beer, Blonde Ale
Non-Alcoholic Drinks	Sparkling Water, Fresh Pear Juice, Apple Cider
Spirits	Grappa, Limoncello, Aperol Spritz