Just 25 kilometers from Sassari (and a short distance from the peace of Villa Malvasio) is a small jewel set at over 600 meters above sea level: the village of Osilo. Dominated by the ruins of the ancient Malaspina Castle, which offers a 360-degree view that embraces the entire north-west down to the sea, Osilo is not just a charming village to visit. It is the home of one of the island's most sought-after and precious gastronomic excellences: Pecorino di Osilo.
If you are a lover of authentic flavors, this cheese will make your vacation unforgettable. But how do you recognize it, where do you buy it, and above all, how do you taste it best? We will reveal it to you.
What is Pecorino di Osilo (Slow Food Presidium)
Forget the classic industrial supermarket pecorino. Pecorino di Osilo is a dairy masterpiece, recognized as a Slow Food Presidium. Compared to the classic Sardinian pecorino, it has a different shape: smaller, with a narrower diameter, and taller.
It is artisanally produced by local shepherds using exclusively raw sheep's milk, and it is pressed in a particular way. Its magic is revealed upon tasting: the paste is melting, buttery, and releases the unique scents of the Osilo pastures, with incredible notes of aromatic herbs, wool, and toasted hazelnut.
Where to buy it: Antica Salumeria Mangatia in Sassari
If you want to take this marvel home after visiting Osilo, or if you are strolling through the historic center of Sassari, there is only one address we highly recommend: Antica Salumeria Mangatia, at Via Università 68 (very close to the University of Sassari).
This historic shop, open since 1922, is not a simple store, but a true temple of Sardinian taste. Welcoming you will be Pinuccio (and his daughter Silvia, the fourth generation!), who will guide you on an unforgettable sensory journey. Pinuccio knows the history of every single wheel of cheese and will satisfy all your curiosity.
In addition to the prized Pecorino di Osilo, Antica Salumeria Mangatia is the ideal place to stock up on true Sardinian excellences:
- Fine local wines (such as Cagnulari and Cannonau).
- Typical artisanal cold cuts (you must try the Sardinian sausage).
- Traditional sweets and pane carasau. 👉 You can discover more about their shop and products by visiting their official website: www.mangatiasassari.it
How to taste it? The "Microwave Secret"
Buying the cheese is only the first step. Our advice for tasting Pecorino di Osilo (strictly medium-aged) is to eat it roasted, gently melted over a fire.
But what if you are on vacation in a B&B, or at home, and don't have the possibility to light a grill? Here is the "secret" of Villa Malvasio, a very quick and foolproof alternative: the microwave oven.
- Cut a nice thick slice of Pecorino di Osilo (leave the rind on, it will help contain the melted cheese!).
- Place it on a suitable small plate.
- Microwave it for just 30, maximum 50 seconds.
- Take it out and get ready: the heat will melt the cheese into a stringy cream, instantly releasing all the essential oils and intoxicating scents of the grass and pastures of Osilo.
Accompany it with a piece of crunchy pane carasau and a glass of red wine, and you will have just treated yourself to the true essence of Sardinia.
