San Simón

Some cheeses stand out because of their aroma. Others stand out because of their flavour. San Simón stands of because of both, and also its unique shape. Read on to discover this smoked cheese from Spain.

Cylindrical San Simón Spanish smoked cheese
Cylindrical San Simón - San Simón Da Costa

Where does San Simón come from?

While it might not be as well-known as Manchego or Mahón Curado, this Galician cheese is definitely just as spectacular. This traditional smoked cheese originates from Galicia in north-western Spain. To this day, artisanal cheesemakers make it using local milk and unique tear-drop shaped conical moulds. Once the cheese is shaped, they smoked it on birch wood for up to 90 minutes.

What does San Simón taste like?

After maturing for 2 months, the cheese develops a natural rich ochre rind around a semi-firm paste. More often than not, the interior of the cheese presents with small opening and is pale yellow in colour. Overall, it has a fairly mild flavour with notes of butter and delicate smoke.  

How to serve San Simón

It can be enjoyed with fruit-based desserts. Serve with celery, fresh bread, hazelnuts or green apple tart. Furthermore, San Simón melts spectacularly and adds great flavour to casseroles and grilled cheese sandwiches. Serve as part of tapas with chorizo, olives and Marcona almonds. Finally, you can pair this gorgeous cheese with a glass of a local white wine or brut Cava. 

Thank you for reading

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