I guess that technically this is a “Hispanico” and not a Manchego, since I used cow milk.
I followed Ms. Karlin’s recipe (without the saffron), a bit confused by her aging recommendations from 10 days (!) to three months.
Here is mine after 2-1/2 months.
This is the most carefree cheese I’ve ever made. I think I wiped it once (?) for mold, and I did give it a rub with olive oil at some point, but other than that didn’t do anything.
But, you ask, how did it taste?
Well, okay. Somewhat sour/lactic, although not in an unpleasant way, just lacking the depth & complexity of what I really like in cheese. Pretty much one-note. I’m going to take another slice and use it to make toasted cheese & tomato sandwiches, which I’m pretty sure will be wonderful. The rest will go into the fridge for a couple of months.
Of all the cheeses I've made, this one looks the "cheesiest."
-L