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Famous Cheeses Of Leicestershire.

© Elizabeth Batt

Leicestershire is home to two famous cheeses, each unique in texture and taste. Perhaps the most famous is Stilton Cheese, alternatively named, "Britain's Historic Blue." This cheese is regarded as the King of British Cheeses. Leicester's other famous cheese bears the town's name. "Red Leicester," is moister than Stilton and it is often noted for it's fine melting properties.

Both cheeses are highly regarded in their own rights when a recipe calls for cheese and the beverages recommended for each particular cheese are yet again, unique. For this reason alone, I shall deal with each cheese individually and offer recipes and beverages to complement their individuality.

Of course, we have to begin with the cream of the crop - Stilton, the King of Britain!

Stilton's history dates back 300 years where it became popular during the early 1700's. The cheese is named after the small town of Stilton where it began it's rise to fame at the local "Bell Inn." Ironically the cheese isn't made in or near the town of Stilton, but rather in the district of Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire.

Stilton cheese is exclusively made in the East Midlands and the counties of Nottinghamshire, and Derbyshire have joined Leicestershire in producing this fine cheese.

Only seven dairies use the original centuries-old recipe and only these seven are licensed to do so. Handmade, Stilton is made with local milk and it is so esteemed that it is the only British cheese graced with it's own certification trademark. Stilton is growing in popularity in the US and Canada, sales of it have increased year after year. It's full-rounded qualities are prized as authentic of an earlier time - a real taste of history!

For more information, newsletters and distribution areas in the US and Canada visit the Stilton Cheese Web Site

The Properties of Stilton

• A rich somewhat sharp taste.
• A crumbly to soft texture, based on age.
• Blue veined.
• Aged 2-4 months.

For all those recipe lovers out there, I have decided to put together a three course meal just for you. The meal comprises an appetiser, a main course and a dessert and they all include good old Stilton Cheese!

Appetiser

Stilton, Leek & Wild Mushroom Soup

A real treat for Vegetarians, this soup is deliciously warming.

Ingredients

• 450g/1lb leeks, white part only
• 50g/2oz of butter
• 700ml/1 1/2 pints of vegetable stock
• 300ml/11fl oz milk
• 225g/8oz potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 20g/3/4oz dried cep mushrooms
• 75g/3oz of Stilton cheese
• 4 tbsp creamed horseradish
• 4 tbsp sour cream
• 1 Large dill pickle, chopped
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chervil.

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