Sifor Pecorino Pepato With Black Pepper Cheese Wedge, 14.8 oz [Pack of 3]

Sifor Pecorino Pepato: The Bold Sicilian Classic

Weight: 15.9 oz. Wedge (Approx. 450g)

Ignite your palate with the "Grandfather" of flavored Sicilian cheeses: Sifor Pecorino Pepato. A staple of Southern Italian tradition, Pepato (meaning "peppered") is a masterclass in balance. It marries the robust, salty character of aged sheep's milk with the sharp, aromatic heat of whole black peppercorns. Crafted by the artisans at Sifor, this wedge is an essential ingredient for anyone looking to bring authentic Mediterranean intensity to their table.

The Pepato Profile

Unlike cheeses where pepper is merely a coating, Sifor infuses whole black peppercorns directly into the curd during the aging process. As the cheese matures, the peppercorns soften slightly and release their essential oils, marinating the paste from within.

• The Texture: Semi-hard to hard, with a satisfyingly flaky and compact structure. It is firm enough to be grated over pasta but holds its shape perfectly on a charcuterie board.
• The Aroma: Bold and spicy. The scent of toasted pepper hits first, followed by the rich, grassy fragrance of matured Sicilian sheep's milk.
• The Flavor: A complex journey. It begins with a savory, salty tang that transitions into a slow, warming spice as you bite into a peppercorn. The finish is clean, nutty, and distinctly piquant.

Culinary Versatility

Sifor Pecorino Pepato is a "workhorse" cheese in the Italian kitchen, prized for its ability to cut through rich fats and add a layer of complexity to simple ingredients.

• The Ultimate Grater: This is the secret to a world-class Cacio e Pepe or Pasta alla Gricia. The pre-infused pepper ensures a more integrated, deep spice than added ground pepper alone.
• The Antipasto Star: Serve thin, triangular shards alongside sweet honey, dried apricots, or fresh broad beans (fava) to balance the salt and spice.
• The Perfect Pairing: Match the bold "zing" of the pepper with a structured red wine like a Sicilian Nero d’Avola or a peppery Syrah. For a non-alcoholic pairing, a crisp, cold sparkling water with lemon is incredibly refreshing.

Technical Profile

Pro Tip: If the cheese feels too sharp for your guests, serve it with a dollop of fig jam or a slice of sweet melon. The natural sugars provide a beautiful counterpoint to the peppercorn’s heat.