What is
Maroilles cheese?

Maroilles cheese is a French cheese that is characterized by its strong flavor and distinctive orange rind. It is a semi-soft cheese made from cow's milk and is typically aged for at least four weeks. The cheese is known for its creamy texture and pungent aroma, often described as 'stinky' but palatable once tasted. It can be enjoyed on its own, as part of a cheese platter, or used in cooking to enhance dishes with its robust flavor.

Origins & History

Maroilles cheese originates from the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region in France, specifically from the village of Maroilles. The cheese has been produced since at least the 10th century and is one of the oldest cheeses in the region. Historically, it was made by monks until commercial production began in the 19th century. Today, it holds a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, ensuring that only cheese produced in the defined region can carry the Maroilles name.

Taste & Texture

Maroilles cheese has a rich, creamy texture with a strong, pungent flavor profile that is both bold and complex. It offers a slightly sweet, earthy taste, with fermented notes that develop with aging. The aftertaste can be savory and lingering, appealing to fans of strong cheeses.

Ingredients

Cow's milk

The primary ingredient for Maroilles cheese, cow's milk gives the cheese its creamy texture and rich flavor profile.

Rennet

A natural enzyme used in cheese making to curdle the milk, helping to form the solid curds necessary for Maroilles.

Salt

Used to enhance flavor and also acts as a preservative in the cheese.

Cultures (bacterial and mold cultures)

These are added to develop the characteristic flavor and aroma of the cheese, as well as to aid in the aging process.

This item may contain the following allergens:

Lactose