Aura cheese

A Finnish cheese with a distinct blue mold flavor

A wedge of Aura cheese

Aura cheese (Finnish: Aura-juusto) is a type of blue cheese produced in Finland. It is known for its creamy texture and distinct blue mold flavor, which is characteristic of blue cheeses. Aura cheese is named after the Aura River in Turku, Finland, where it was first produced.

History

Aura cheese was first developed in the 1930s by the Finnish dairy company Valio. The cheese was created to provide a Finnish alternative to other European blue cheeses, such as Roquefort and Gorgonzola. Over the years, Aura cheese has become a popular choice in Finland and is often used in various culinary applications.

Production

Aura cheese is made from cow's milk and is characterized by the presence of blue mold, which is introduced during the cheese-making process. The cheese is aged for several weeks to develop its flavor and texture. During aging, the blue mold spreads throughout the cheese, creating the distinctive blue veins that are typical of blue cheeses.

Characteristics

Aura cheese has a creamy and crumbly texture, with a tangy and slightly salty flavor. The blue mold gives the cheese a sharp and pungent taste, which is balanced by the creaminess of the cheese. It is typically sold in wedges and can be used in a variety of dishes.

Culinary Uses

Aura cheese is versatile and can be used in many culinary applications. It is often crumbled over salads, used as a topping for pizzas, or melted into sauces. The cheese pairs well with fruits, such as pears and apples, and is commonly served on cheese platters.

Related pages

• Blue cheese
• Roquefort
• Gorgonzola
• Valio