Redykołka
Redykołka is a traditional Polish smoked cheese made from unpasteurized sheep's milk. It is produced exclusively in the Tatra Mountains region of Poland, typically during the summer months. Redykołka is protected under European Union law as a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), meaning it must be produced according to specific standards and within a defined geographic area to be sold under that name.
The cheese is known for its distinctive shapes, which are often inspired by animals (such as sheep, hearts, and birds) or traditional mountain motifs. These shapes are formed by hand using wooden molds or intricate hand-shaping techniques. The cheese's unique smoky flavor comes from being smoked using wood from local trees, primarily spruce.
Redykołka is typically smaller and lighter than its related cheese, Oscypek. While Oscypek is larger and often used for grilling, Redykołka is more often enjoyed as a snack or part of a cheese board. It is considered a delicacy and a symbol of Polish highland culture.