What is Strachitunt? A Taste of Lombardian Tradition

Welcome to a journey of taste and tradition as we explore the hidden gem of Lombardy – Strachitunt. This unique cheese, with its rich flavors and fascinating history, is a testament to Italy’s enduring culinary craftsmanship.

Made from the finest cow’s milk, aged in natural caves, and boasting a distinctive blue-veined appearance, Strachitunt is more than just a cheese—it’s a sensory experience that tells a tale of the region’s passionate commitment to quality and authenticity.

Quick Facts About Strachitunt

Country of Origin	Italy
Region	Lombardia
PDO	2014
Age	3 to 5 months
Milk	Italian Brown Cow Breed (Raw)
Classification	Blue (semi-soft)
Weight and shape	4 to 5 kg (9 to 11 lb), Wheel
Size	Diameter 24 to 28 cm (9.5 to 11 inches), Height 15 to 18 cm (6 to 7 Inches)
Producer	Arrigoni Valtaleggio
Taste	Sweet, spicy, bitter, rich, mushrooms
Texture	Dense, compact. Dry, wrinkled crusty rind
Pairing	Valtellina Superiore, Franciacorta, Lugana, Sforzato di Valtellina

What is Strachitunt?

Strachitunt is more than just a cheese; it’s an embodiment of the rich and diverse culinary heritage of Italy’s Lombardy region. This unique cheese, ensconced in the picturesque valleys of the Bergamo Alps, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by cheese enthusiasts worldwide.

Strachitunt is a double-fermented, blue-veined cheese, made from the raw milk of Bruna Alpina cows. The cheese-making process, steeped in centuries-old traditions, involves a meticulous layering of curd from evening and morning milkings, creating a distinctive strata effect. The cheese is then aged in natural caves, where the cool, humid environment allows for the growth of its characteristic blue veins.

The end product is a round, semi-hard cheese with a unique texture that’s both creamy and crumbly. Its flavor profile is equally intriguing – a delightful balance of mild sweetness and tangy notes, with hints of earthiness from the cave-aging process. But what truly sets Strachitunt apart is its complex aftertaste, a lingering blend of flavors that leaves you craving for more.

Whether you’re enjoying it on a cheese platter, paired with a robust Italian wine, or simply savoring it on its own, Strachitunt promises an unforgettable gastronomic journey. This cheese is not just a testament to Italy’s unparalleled cheese-making prowess, but also a flavorful reminder of the power of tradition and the magic of artisanal craftsmanship.

Strachitunt Tasting Notes

Appearance: Strachitunt is a round, semi-hard cheese, featuring a natural rind that ranges from yellow to brown. The interior showcases distinctive blue veins, a result of the double fermentation process.
Texture: The cheese offers a unique texture – a striking balance between creamy and crumbly. The layered curd structure contributes to its rich, mouth-filling feel.
Aroma: Strachitunt’s aroma is a delightful mix of earthy and milky scents, with subtle hints of the natural caves where it matures. The smell becomes more pronounced as the cheese ages.
Flavor: The initial taste is mild and slightly sweet, giving way to a gentle tanginess. The cave-aging process lends an underlying earthy note, adding depth to its flavor profile.
Aftertaste: One of Strachitunt’s most intriguing aspects is its complex aftertaste. It leaves a lingering blend of flavors on the palate, making each bite a memorable experience.
Pairings: Strachitunt pairs well with full-bodied red wines, which complement its robust flavors. It also works wonderfully with fruits like pears and figs or can be enjoyed with a drizzle of honey for a sweet contrast.
Uses: Apart from being a star on a cheese platter, Strachitunt can be used in a variety of dishes. It melts beautifully, making it an excellent choice for pasta sauces, risotto, or gourmet pizzas.

7 Best Strachitunt Substitutes

Substitute	Description
Gorgonzola	This Italian blue cheese has a similar texture and taste to Strachitunt. It also has the same creamy, crumbly texture and strong flavor.
Roquefort	A French blue cheese, Roquefort is tangy and crumbly, making it a good substitute for Strachitunt.
Stilton	This English cheese is known for its strong flavor and creamy texture. It can be used as a substitute for Strachitunt in most recipes.
Bleu d’Auvergne	This French cheese is creamy with a strong, spicy flavor. It can be used as a substitute for Strachitunt in cooking or on a cheese board.
Danish Blue	Danish Blue is a mild, semi-soft blue cheese that can be used as a substitute for Strachitunt. It is less pungent but still offers a nice tangy flavor.
Cambozola	A German cheese, Cambozola blends the creaminess of Camembert with the sharpness of Gorgonzola. It’s an excellent substitute for Strachitunt in terms of both texture and flavor.
Fourme d’Ambert	This French blue cheese is milder and creamier than Strachitunt but can still be used as a substitute due to its similar texture and flavor profile.

What Pairs Well With Strachitunt?

Wines: Full-bodied red wines, such as Barolo or Amarone, are a perfect match for Strachitunt’s robust flavors. The richness of these wines complements the cheese’s tangy notes and enhances its earthy undertones.
Jams and Jellies: Sweet spreads like beer jelly, fig jam, and orange jam pair beautifully with Strachitunt. Their sweetness provides a delightful contrast to the cheese’s savory profile.
Meats: Game meats such as venison fillet can be paired with Strachitunt for a hearty meal. The strong flavors of these meats are well balanced by the cheese’s creamy texture and complex taste.
Accompaniments for Cheeseboard: A variety of other cheeses and salami make great accompaniments on a cheeseboard with Strachitunt. The combination of different textures and flavors creates an exciting culinary experience.
Dishes: Traditional Italian dishes like Polenta Taragna and Porchetta can be enhanced by incorporating Strachitunt. Its melt-in-your-mouth quality adds a touch of luxury to these classic recipes.
Raw Foods: Fresh fruits like figs go well with Strachitunt. The natural sweetness of the fruit highlights the cheese’s mild sweetness and offsets its tangy notes.
Local Foods: Other regional specialties from Lombardy such as Branzi, Formai de Mut dell’Alta Valle Brembana, and Valcalepio can be paired with Strachitunt to create a truly authentic Italian feast.