Liqvan Cheese: A Treasured Taste from the Slopes of Mount Sahand
Liqvan cheese is one of Iran’s most renowned and authentic cheeses, recognized worldwide. This delicious and popular cheese, with its unique flavor and aroma, has found its way to Iranian tables from the pristine nature of the Mount Sahand slopes.
Why Liqvan Cheese?
Liqvan cheese stands out for its salty and slightly tangy taste, soft and buttery texture, and delightful aroma. Its exceptional flavor and aroma are attributed to its traditional production method and the use of milk from sheep grazing on mountain pastures.
Key Ingredients of Liqvan Cheese
* Sheep’s milk: The primary ingredient, providing Liqvan cheese with its distinctive taste. Milk from sheep grazing on mountain pastures gives the cheese a unique flavor profile.
* Rennet: Used to curdle the milk and transform it into cheese.
* Salt: Adds saltiness and aids in preservation.
Production Process
Liqvan cheese is traditionally produced by skilled local cheesemakers. Fresh sheep’s milk is boiled, then mixed with rennet to curdle. The curds are cut, drained, and salted. The resulting cheeses are then submerged in brine and aged for several months in a cool, dark environment to develop their full flavor and aroma.
Types of Liqvan Cheese
Liqvan cheese comes in various types, depending on the aging time and packaging. These include premium Liqvan cheese (super Liqvan), regular Liqvan cheese, and semi-soft Liqvan cheese.
Nutritional Benefits
Liqvan cheese is rich in calcium, protein, and B vitamins. It helps strengthen bones and teeth and is beneficial for those with calcium deficiencies. Additionally, Liqvan cheese is a good source of protein, essential for growth and tissue repair.