Introducing Piacentinu Ennese
Piacentinu Ennese is a unique and striking cheese originating from the heart of Sicily, specifically the province of Enna. Instantly recognizable by its rich yellow hue—thanks to the incorporation of saffron—this historic cheese holds deeply rooted cultural significance and offers a tasting experience that sets it apart from other Italian varieties.
Distinctive Qualities and Appearance
The most notable feature of Piacentinu Ennese is its vivid golden color, resulting from the prized addition of local saffron threads blended directly into the curd. Traditionally made with sheep’s milk, it has a firm but supple texture and is often studded with whole black peppercorns. The flavor profile is subtly spicy from the pepper, aromatic from the saffron, and develops nutty, savory notes as it matures.
Historical Background
The origins of Piacentinu Ennese can be traced back to Norman Sicily in the 11th century. According to legend, it was created at the behest of Count Roger I, who was advised to use saffron in cheese as a remedy for his wife’s melancholy. Over centuries, the cheese not only became a culinary staple in the region but also a symbol of local identity. Awarded PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) status, it remains an ambassador of Sicilian dairy traditions.
How Piacentinu Ennese is Crafted
Local sheep’s milk is at the core of Piacentinu Ennese, collected from flocks grazing on native Sicilian pastures. The production involves heating the milk and curdling it with natural rennet. After breaking the curd and draining the whey, producers add saffron and whole peppercorns before pressing and shaping the cheese. The wheels are brined and left to mature for at least 60 days, with some varieties aged much longer for an intensified flavor.
Regional Pairings and Typical Enjoyment
Piacentinu Ennese is often savored as a table cheese, sliced or cubed and enjoyed with rustic Sicilian breads or olives. Its aromatic qualities pair beautifully with medium-bodied Sicilian white wines such as Grillo or Inzolia. In local cuisine, it is also used to enrich pasta dishes and savory pastries, lending both color and depth of flavor.
Cultural Connections and Serving Tips
This cheese plays a prominent role in Sicilian festivities, especially during Easter and other religious celebrations. Serving it at room temperature enhances both its aroma and texture. For an extra-special antipasto platter, combine Piacentinu Ennese with other Sicilian specialties like sun-dried tomatoes, honey, or citrus preserves. The cheese’s bold flavors also make it an excellent match for fruit-forward red wines or a drizzle of local olive oil.
Variations and Modern Appreciation
While the traditional PDO recipe is strictly followed for official production, some artisanal makers experiment with different levels of saffron or aging times, resulting in a range of intensity in both flavor and appearance. Today, Piacentinu Ennese stands as a celebrated symbol of Sicilian cheesemaking, beloved by locals and sought after by cheese enthusiasts around the globe.
