Tuma: A Culinary Delight
About Tuma
Tuma is a traditional cheese originating from the pastoral lands of Italy. It has a rich history dating back hundreds of years, where it was crafted by shepherds in the Sicilian countryside. Known for its gentle flavor and creamy texture, Tuma is loved by gourmets and casual diners alike. It is typically made from freshly curdled sheep's milk, bearing a unique taste that reflects the lush pastures of its origin. This cheese is often described as the younger, less-aged sibling of the more intense "Pecorino" cheeses, making it a versatile ingredient in a variety of dishes.
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Milk
Start by heating the sheep's milk to around 30°C (86°F). It's important to maintain this temperature to ensure that the rennet can work its magic in curdling the milk optimally. Stir gently to distribute the heat evenly.
Step 2: Adding Rennet
Dilute the rennet in a small amount of water. Once diluted, add it to the warmed milk and stir it uniformly. Allow the milk to sit undisturbed for about 45 minutes to an hour for curd formation.
Step 3: Cutting the Curd
Once the milk has set into a firm curd, cut it into small cubes of 1 cm (0.4 inches) using a long knife. This process helps in releasing the whey from the curds when they are further heated.
Step 4: Cooking the Curds
Slowly heat the curds to 40°C (104°F), stirring gently to prevent them from clumping together. This step should take about 20 minutes. Keep using your cooking timer to ensure precision.
Step 5: Draining and Pressing
Once cooked, drain the whey from the curds using a cheesecloth. Transfer the drained curds into a cheese mold and apply light pressure to form the cheese block. Leave the cheese to set by pressing for 24 hours.
Step 6: Salting the Cheese
After the cheese has set, remove it from the mold and submerge it in a salt brine solution. This salting process enhances the flavor and helps in preserving the cheese. Allow it to soak for about 12 hours.
Cooking with Tuma
Popular Dishes
- Tuma Salad: Fresh greens tossed with cubes of Tuma, drizzled with olive oil.
- Tuma Pasta: Creamy pasta sauce enriched with melted Tuma.
- Tuma Sandwich: A crusty baguette filled with sliced Tuma and prosciutto.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair Tuma with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red such as Pinot Noir. Savory chutneys or honey also enhance the cheese's mild taste.
Enjoying Tuma
Tuma can be enjoyed in its natural state by slicing it and pairing it with bread and fruit, serving as a delightful appetizer. Its pleasant, delicate flavor also complements stronger ingredients, making it an exquisite part of a cheeseboard. When using Tuma in cooking, allow the cheese to reach room temperature before slicing or grating, ensuring optimal blending into your dish.