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Pecorino

Pecorino is a general term for Italian cheeses made from sheep’s milk.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Pecorino is a general term for Italian cheeses made from sheep’s milk. The name comes from the Italian word *pecora*, meaning “sheep,” and it includes several regional varieties, some of which have protected designation of origin status. Pecorino cheeses are usually hard and aged, though styles and aging periods vary.

Definition

Pecorino is not one single cheese but a family of Italian cheeses made from ewe’s milk. The term is used broadly, although it is often associated with firm, salty, aged cheeses.

Origin and name

The name comes from the Italian word *pecora*, meaning sheep. Historical references to sheep’s-milk cheese in Italy are commonly linked to antiquity, including Roman-era sources.

Major varieties

Well-known varieties include Pecorino Romano, Pecorino Sardo, Pecorino Toscano, and Pecorino Siciliano. These regional cheeses differ in texture, aging, and flavor, and some are protected by EU PDO status.

Culinary use

Pecorino is commonly eaten as a table cheese or grated over pasta and other dishes. Stronger, longer-aged versions are especially valued for seasoning.

Key facts

  • Pecorino is a category of Italian cheeses made from sheep’s milk.
  • The word comes from *pecora*, the Italian word for sheep.
  • Pecorino cheeses are usually hard and aged, though styles and aging periods vary.
  • Several regional pecorinos have Protected Designation of Origin status.
  • Pecorino Romano is one of the best-known varieties and is often used for grating.
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Canadian context

Pecorino is widely available in Canadian grocery stores and specialty cheese shops, and it is commonly used in Italian-style cooking in Canada.

Frequently asked questions

What is pecorino?
Pecorino is a family of Italian cheeses made from sheep’s milk.
Why is it called pecorino?
The name comes from *pecora*, the Italian word for sheep.
Is pecorino a hard cheese?
Many pecorino cheeses are hard and aged, but styles vary by region and aging time.
What are the main types of pecorino?
Common PDO varieties include Pecorino Romano, Pecorino Sardo, Pecorino Toscano, and Pecorino Siciliano.
How is pecorino used in cooking?
It is often grated over pasta, salads, and other dishes, especially in its aged forms.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pecorino
    Supports: Pecorino as an Italian hard cheese produced from sheep’s milk and the etymology from *pecora*.
  2. Food Network — https://www.foodnetwork.com/fn-dish/how-to/2014/09/everything-you-need-to-know-about-pecorino-cheese
    Supports: Pecorino as a term for Italian sheep’s-milk cheeses, main types, aging categories, and historical notes.
  3. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pecorino_romano
    Supports: Pecorino Romano as a hard, salty sheep’s-milk cheese commonly used for grating.
  4. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pecorino_sardo
    Supports: Pecorino Sardo as a regional pecorino and its PDO status.
  5. Turismo Roma — https://www.turismoroma.it/en/page/pecorino-romano-extra-tasty-secret-roman-cuisine
    Supports: Pecorino Romano’s traditional use in Roman cuisine and production areas including Lazio, Sardinia, and Grosseto.