Queixo Tetilla Recipe

Introduction

Queixo Tetilla, pronounced as "kay-sho teh-tee-ya," is a traditional cheese originating from the Galicia region in northwest Spain. The name "Tetilla" means small breast in Galician, referring to the cheese's distinctive shape. It boasts a long history as a beloved staple in Galician cuisine, celebrated for its soft texture and creamy, slightly tangy flavor. This cheese is made from pasteurized milk, traditionally sourced from Rubia Gallega, Friesian, or Alpine Brown cattle. Its distinctive taste and texture are owed to the grass pastures in Galicia, which provide rich flavor to the milk.

The roots of Queixo Tetilla trace back to the monasteries of Galicia, where monks perfected cheesemaking techniques. Today, it holds a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, ensuring that only cheese produced in Galicia and adhering to specific quality standards can bear the name Queixo Tetilla.

Ingredients

• Queixo Tetilla cheese - 200g
• Olive oil - 2 tbsp
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Spanish ham (Serrano or Iberico) - 100g
• Crusty bread - 1 loaf
• Black pepper - to taste
• Fresh herbs (e.g., thyme, rosemary) - for garnish

Preparation

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Take the Queixo Tetilla cheese out of the refrigerator and allow it to reach room temperature. This helps in enhancing its flavor and makes it easier to handle.

2. Slice the cheese into medium-sized wedges for easy melting and serving.

3. Mince the garlic finely.

4. Slice the Spanish ham into thin strips that can be easily layered or wrapped.

5. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This will help us later in warming the bread and cheese.

Cooking Process

Infusing the Olive Oil

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, pour the olive oil and add the minced garlic.

2. Let the garlic infuse the oil with its aroma. Stir occasionally to prevent burning, and remove from heat once the garlic is golden.

Preparing the Bread

1. Cut the crusty bread into a few slices, depending on desired portion size.

2. Brush the infused olive oil generously over the slices.

3. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet and lightly toast them in the oven for about 5 minutes until they are crisp and golden.

Melting the Cheese

1. Place the sliced Queixo Tetilla cheese over a separate baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

2. Lightly sprinkle with black pepper to taste.

3. Transfer the cheese into the preheated oven for about 6-8 minutes. Set a cooking timer to ensure the cheese melts without burning.

Assembly

1. Once everything is ready, place slices of ham on the toasted bread, creating an even layer.

2. Carefully retrieve the melted cheese from the oven.

3. Divide and layer the melted cheese over the bread and ham slices carefully.

4. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a touch of aroma and presentation.

How to Enjoy

Enjoy your Queixo Tetilla dish as an appetizer or a light meal. Pair it with a glass of Albariño wine, native to the Galicia region, to complement the cheese's flavors. This dish is perfect for gatherings or as a comforting meal on a quiet evening. The creaminess of the cheese, the saltiness of the ham, and the crunchiness of the bread offer a delightful texture contrast, making every bite an experience. Savor the authentic taste of Galicia right at your table.