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Gorgonzola

Gorgonzola’s tangy, strong flavor combines well with the mild flavors of polenta and with firm-crusted breads.

Italian Gorgonzola is one of the great blue cheeses of the world. It is among the earliest of European cheeses, with its first historical record dating to the year 869. Today it is made in northern Italy by both artisan and bulk producers. Some Gorgonzola is still aged in the traditional caves at Valsassina and Lodi, which provide ideal conditions for the formation of the mold that gives the cheese its distinctive tang.

Gorgonzola has a soft, creamy texture and is white or straw-colored, with characteristic greenish-blue flecks or veins. Its production begins with whole milk, to which the cheese mold is added. The finished cheeses are then aged for three to five months. After the first month, the cheese is pierced with long copper needles to enhance the circulation of air and growth of the mold. The cheese is produced in wheels that weigh about 18 to 26 pounds (8 to 11.7 kg).

Varieties

Sweet or dolce Gorgonzola

This is a semisoft cheese, mild and buttery, with an ivory-yellow color and blue-green marbling.

Aged or naturale Gorgonzola

This cheese is firmer, and more assertive in flavor and aroma.

Mountain Gorgonzola

This variety is aged for 6 to 12 months; the longer aging produces an intense flavor, and a cheese with well-developed veins.

Buying and storing tips

Gorgonzola is usually wrapped in foil to keep it moist. Refrigerated and carefully wrapped, it will keep well for several weeks.

Availability

Gorgonzola is widely available in health food stores, specialty stores, and markets.

Preparation, uses, and tips

Gorgonzola’s tangy, strong flavor combines well with the mild flavors of polenta and firm-crusted breads. It is also excellent in salads and dips. Ripe pears, Gorgonzola, and red wine are a classic dessert combination.

Nutritional Highlights

Gorgonzola, 1 slice 1 oz. (28g)
Calories: 100
Protein: 6.1g
Carbohydrate: 0.66g
Total Fat: 8.1g
Fiber: 0.0g
*Good source of: Calcium (149mg)

*Foods that are an “excellent source” of a particular nutrient provide 20% or more of the Recommended Daily Value, based upon United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) guidelines. Foods that are a “good source” of a particular nutrient provide between 10 and 20% of the USDA Recommended Daily Value. Nutritional information and daily nutritional guidelines may vary in different countries. Please consult the appropriate organization in your country for specific nutritional values and the recommended daily guidelines.