Which Cheese is Made of Donkey Milk? The Story of Pule, the World's Most Expensive Cheese

When you think about cheese, your mind probably drifts to cheddar, mozzarella, or perhaps a creamy brie. But have you ever considered cheese made from donkey milk? It might sound unusual, but it's a reality, and it produces one of the most exclusive and expensive cheeses in the world.

The Star of the Show: Pule Cheese

The answer to "Which cheese is made of donkey milk?" is Pule cheese. This incredibly rare and costly cheese originates from a specific region in Serbia, in the Zasavica Special Nature Reserve. It's not just any donkey milk cheese; it's a cheese so unique that its production is limited and highly controlled.

What Makes Pule So Special?

There are several key factors that contribute to Pule's extraordinary status:

The Source: Pule is made exclusively from the milk of Balkan donkeys. These donkeys are a specific breed raised in the Zasavica reserve.
The Milking Process: Milking donkeys is a labor-intensive and delicate process. Unlike cows, donkeys produce a relatively small amount of milk, and they need to be milked three times a day to extract it.
The Milk Composition: Donkey milk is remarkably similar in composition to human breast milk. It is naturally very low in casein, the protein that typically makes cow's milk suitable for cheesemaking and that many people are sensitive to. This low casein content is one of the reasons why Pule has a unique texture and flavor.
The Flavor Profile: Pule is described as having a rich, intensely savory, and somewhat salty flavor. It's a strong cheese that commands attention.
The Texture: Due to the low casein, Pule cheese has a crumbly yet creamy texture. It's often compared to a very mature Parmesan or a dry feta, but with its own distinct character.

The Production of Pule

The production of Pule cheese is a closely guarded secret, but the general process involves:

Collecting the Milk: The donkeys are milked by hand three times daily. This yields a very small quantity of milk per donkey.
Processing: The milk is then processed into cheese. The exact methods and aging processes are proprietary to the Zasavica reserve. It's known that a significant amount of milk is required to produce a small amount of cheese.
Aging: Pule cheese is aged for a period of time to develop its characteristic flavor and texture.

"It takes approximately 25 liters (about 6.6 gallons) of donkey milk to produce just one kilogram (about 2.2 pounds) of Pule cheese."

This immense milk requirement is a primary driver of its high cost. The labor involved in milking and the rarity of the milk itself contribute to its exclusivity.

Why is Donkey Milk Used for Cheese?

Historically, donkey milk was used by humans for its nutritional and medicinal properties. It was consumed as a beverage and was believed to have various health benefits. The idea of turning it into cheese is a more recent development, driven by the unique properties of the milk. The low casein content makes it potentially suitable for individuals with cow's milk protein allergies or sensitivities, though it's still a strong, aged cheese with its own potential allergens.

The Price Tag: Why is Pule So Expensive?

Pule cheese is famously known as the "world's most expensive cheese," with prices often exceeding $1,000 per pound. The astronomical cost is a direct result of the aforementioned factors:

Scarcity of Milk: As mentioned, donkeys produce very little milk, and there aren't large-scale commercial donkey dairies.
Labor-Intensive Milking: Hand-milking multiple times a day for a small yield is extremely time-consuming and requires dedicated staff.
Limited Production: The Zasavica reserve has a limited number of donkeys, meaning the total annual production of Pule is very small.
Demand: The novelty and exclusivity of Pule cheese create significant demand from wealthy connoisseurs and collectors.

Where Can You Find Pule Cheese?

Due to its extreme rarity, Pule cheese is not something you'll find in your local supermarket. It is primarily available in Serbia, often at the Zasavica Nature Reserve itself or through very specialized gourmet food distributors. It's a cheese that's more of a collector's item and a culinary legend than a common dairy product.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How much milk does a donkey produce for cheese?

A donkey produces a very small amount of milk compared to a cow. To make just one kilogram of Pule cheese, it takes about 25 liters (approximately 6.6 gallons) of donkey milk. This low yield is a major reason for the cheese's high price.

Q2: Why is donkey milk used for cheese?

Donkey milk is used for cheese due to its unique composition. It is very low in casein, the primary protein in cow's milk that can cause allergies. This makes it a potential option for some individuals sensitive to cow's milk, and it also contributes to the unique texture and flavor of Pule cheese.

Q3: How is donkey milk cheese different from cow's milk cheese?

Donkey milk cheese, like Pule, has a distinct flavor and texture due to its low casein content. It's typically richer, more savory, and can be crumbly yet creamy. Cow's milk cheese, with its higher casein, generally has a different texture and is more readily available and affordable due to higher production yields.

Q4: Is Pule cheese suitable for people with lactose intolerance?

While donkey milk is naturally lower in lactose than cow's milk, it still contains lactose. Therefore, it may not be suitable for individuals with severe lactose intolerance. It is also important to remember that Pule is an aged cheese, and the aging process can affect lactose levels, but it's still advisable to consume with caution if lactose intolerant.