Ackawi Cheese vs Fontina-Style Cheese
Ackawi Cheese
Fontina-Style Cheese
Ackawi Cheese is a soft, brined cow, goat, or sheep-milk cheese from Cyprus, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Middle East and Syria, while Fontina-Style Cheese is .
What Is Ackawi Cheese?
Akkawi is a white brine cheese from the Levant, named after the port city of Acre. It is usually made from pasteurized cow's milk, cured two days in salted whey brine, and eaten with soft flatbread or on its own as a table cheese.
What Is Fontina-Style Cheese?
Fontina-Style cheese is a semi-soft cheese known for its creamy texture and mild, nutty flavor. It draws inspiration from traditional Italian Fontina but is often made in various regions outside Italy. The cheese has a pale yellow interior with a few small holes and a natural rind. It melts well, making it a popular choice for cooking, particularly in sauces and fondues. The flavor is buttery and slightly earthy, which pairs well with a variety of foods. Fontina-Style cheese can be sliced for sandwiches or served as part of a cheese platter. It is also a good companion to fruits and nuts, enhancing its mild sweetness.
What's the Difference Between Ackawi Cheese and Fontina-Style Cheese?
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Ackawi Cheese | Fontina-Style Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Cyprus, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Middle East And Syria | — |
| Specific Origin | The Levant, Middle East | — |
| Milk Type | Cow's, goat's or sheep's milk | — |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized | — |
| Texture | Soft, brined | — |
| Rind | Natural | — |
| Aging | 2 days in brine | — |
| Taste | Mild, milky, salty | — |
Taste Comparison: Does Ackawi Cheese Taste Like Fontina-Style Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Ackawi Cheese for Fontina-Style Cheese?
Ackawi Cheese can stand in for Fontina-Style Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Ackawi Cheese or Fontina-Style Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want.
Which is your favorite?
One click, anonymous. See what others chose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ackawi Cheese the same as Fontina-Style Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses.
Is Ackawi Cheese similar to Fontina-Style Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Ackawi Cheese for Fontina-Style Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Ackawi Cheese taste like Fontina-Style Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Ackawi Cheese made of?
Ackawi Cheese is made from cow, goat, or sheep milk (pasteurized). It's typically aged 2 days in brine. It originates in Cyprus, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Middle East and Syria.
What is Fontina-Style Cheese made of?
Fontina-Style Cheese is made from milk.
Which should I choose, Ackawi Cheese or Fontina-Style Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.