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by Scoundral on April 24th, 2005
Yes, it's as gross as it sounds... worm cheese is basically cheese filled with worms. Ok, they're not technically worms- they're maggots, but equally yummy, nontheless.
While we might stick our noses up at it, the people of the Sardinian region of Italy hold the treat in high regards. Casu Marzu, as it is known to them, is nothing short of Pecorinos that has been aged in the open air and allowed flies to lay eggs within, thus resulting in thousands of fly larvae (maggots) to infest the cheese. The enzymes produced by the feeding maggots aids in the fermentation of the cheese, in fact causing the milkfat to decompose and a soft pugnant interior to form. This product can cause burning to the esophogas and stomach and has even been known to cause hallucinagenic effects. The maggots are eaten directly with the cheese, usually on bread or crackers. However, they'll not have any confusion that they eat bugs for the fun of it... it's all about the cheese. In fact, any Casu Marzu not sporting these creepy crawlies is considered "no good". Heck, if the bugs wont even eat it... how good could it be?
Obviously, the Italian health officials dont agree with the Sardinarians in their practice of eating worm cheese, and it is forbidden, but that doesn't stop them from making their own home-made delight. Just like momma used to make.
by Anonymous on September 1st, 2008
they cook it and make hols . In besic cheese cooks about 3-5 years ,this is the best kinds of cheeses and after job done worms dissolve. exsepte holes like in swiss.
by KanaBana on December 18th, 2007
It's vile to me as a concept, and illegal because the cheese is not pasturized. It is only considered "good" if the center is creamy with maggot poo. The more maggot excrement, the "better" the qualiy of cheese.
Source - NGC - Taboo - Gross Grub episode
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Comments
That is so gross. . .
by Andy Is Wicked Married to Penal Colony on April 26th, 2005
Mmmm, good with Ritz.
by Max Power on April 26th, 2005
I saw this cheese in Italy and I could not eat it. Gave me the creeps. Pecorino is usally aged underground and it's good.
by Alatea on January 6th, 2006
interesting, but...ick, ick, ick, ick, ick!
by lynnenorth on January 8th, 2006
Sounds interesting, but I don't think I'd ever eat it.
by Singingismystyle on January 31st, 2007
I think I'm going to pass out...
by Gideon on December 18th, 2007
if this is true, how do you think this relates to the book "The cheese and the worms"?
by Indielauper on October 29th, 2008