Afuega’l Pitu is a traditional Spanish cheese hailing from the Asturias region, with a history that traces back to the 18th century. Its name, meaning “choke the chicken” in Asturian, references its dense and pasty texture, which can make it challenging to swallow, especially when aged. This unique cheese is one of the oldest in Asturias, with production methods passed down through generations.
Afuega’l Pitu is made primarily from cow’s milk and is characterized by its distinctive cone or truncated cone shape. There are two main varieties: white (blanco) and red (rojo), the latter being mixed with paprika, which imparts a rich, reddish color and a slightly spicy flavor. The cheese undergoes a natural fermentation process and is typically aged for a short period, ranging from a few days to a couple of months.
This cheese has a creamy, slightly acidic flavor, which becomes more pronounced as it matures. The white variety has a tangy, lactic taste, while the red variety offers a hint of smokiness and spice due to the paprika. Afuega’l Pitu’s texture can vary from soft and spreadable when fresh to firm and crumbly when aged.
Food Pairings
Afuega’l Pitu has a creamy texture and tangy flavor which make it an excellent addition to crusty bread, nuts, and dried fruits like figs and apricots.
Drink Pairings
White variety of Afuega’l Pitu pairs nicely with crisp, acidic white wines like Albariño or a young Cava, which complement its tanginess. The red variety, with its smoky and spicy notes, pairs well with robust reds like Rioja or a young Tempranillo, which can stand up to the cheese’s bold flavors. Additionally, cider from Asturias, with its refreshing acidity, is a classic and local pairing that enhances the cheese’s unique characteristics.
