Discover the unique story behind Abbaye de Belloc, a cherished semi-hard cheese from the French Pyrenees, crafted from the rare, rich milk of red-nosed Manech cows native to the Basque region. Regulated under France’s prestigious AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) laws, Abbaye de Belloc is a part of the Ossau Iraty family of cheeses, renowned for its nutty, caramelized flavors and dense, creamy texture. Each wheel represents a centuries-old tradition and the dedication of the Benedictine monks who perfected this cheese.
In this episode, we journey to the Abbaye Notre Dame de Belloc, near the picturesque village of La Bastide Clairence, a gem of Basque heritage. Learn how the monks’ devotion to labor and prayer inspired their cheesemaking methods, creating a cheese deeply tied to its place of origin. From WWII resilience to agricultural development in the 1960s, Abbaye de Belloc's production reflects a remarkable legacy preserved through local partnerships and modern support.
Abbaye de Belloc’s production uniquely blends regional history with culinary artistry. After the monks turned cheesemaking over to a nearby creamery in the 1990s, Habitat et Humanisme, a French nonprofit, stepped in to ensure the abbey remained a hub for cheesemaking and community service. Today, young interns continue the work, crafting and aging each wheel under the abbey’s roof, honoring an ancient method while supporting affordable housing initiatives.
Indulge in the flavors of Abbaye de Belloc as we explore its exquisite pairing options, from robust wines like Pinot Noir to earthy Shiraz, which enhance the cheese's caramelized richness and nutty character. Join us in celebrating the taste, tradition, and cultural legacy of Abbaye de Belloc—a true taste of Pays Basque’s heritage.
Looking to deepen your culinary journey beyond the podcast? Andrew's latest book, Paris: A Fabulous Food Guide to the World’s Most Delicious City, is your passport to gastronomic delights in the City of Lights. Packed with recommendations for boulangeries, patisseries, wine bars, and more, this guide ensures you savor the best of Parisian cuisine.
Find Andrew's book Paris: A Fabulous Food Guide to the World’s Most Deli
My book Paris: A Fabulous Food Guide to the World’s Most Delicious City is your ultimate companion. You’ll find hand-picked recommendations for the best boulangeries, patisseries, wine bars, cafés, and restaurants that truly capture the flavor of Paris. You can order it online at andrewpriorfabulously.com
For those who want to take things further, why not come cook with me here in Montmorillon, in the heart of France’s Vienne region? Combine hands-on French cooking classes with exploring charming markets, tasting regional specialties, and soaking up the slow, beautiful pace of French countryside life. Find all the details at andrewpriorfabulously.com
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