Aged Gouda Cheese vs Pecorino Romano Cheese

In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Aged Gouda Cheese and Pecorino Romano Cheese, including:

  • "What is the difference between Aged Gouda Cheese and Pecorino Romano Cheese?"
  • "Is Aged Gouda Cheese and Pecorino Romano Cheese the same?"
  • "How does Aged Gouda Cheese compare to Pecorino Romano Cheese cheese?"
  • "How does the taste of Aged Gouda Cheese compare to Pecorino Romano Cheese?"
  • "Is Aged Gouda Cheese or Pecorino Romano Cheese better?"

Aged Gouda Cheese Overview

Aged Gouda is a hard cheese from the Netherlands, known for its rich aroma and firm texture. It can be made from cow's, goat's, or sheep's milk and may be pasteurized or unpasteurized. The cheese has a yellow color and is typically covered with a waxed rind. As it ages, Gouda develops a deeper, caramel-like flavor with hints of nuttiness and a slight crunch from protein crystals. This makes it a popular choice for snacking or serving on cheese platters. Its rich taste pairs well with robust red wines or dark beers. Often referred to as Oud Gouda, this cheese is a staple in both local and international markets.

Pecorino Romano Cheese Overview

Pecorino Romano is one of the most ancient types of cheese and a staple in Italian cuisine. Made from sheep's milk, it is salty and sharp, traditionally used grated over pasta dishes, incorporated into sauces, or eaten on its own with a drizzle of honey. Pecorino Romano is predominantly produced in the regions of Lazio, Sardinia, and Tuscany.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Aged Gouda Cheese comes from Netherlands. Pecorino Romano Cheese originated from Italy.

Certification

Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. Aged Gouda is not a protected cheese. Pecorino Romano Cheese has a PDO (1996), DOP (1996).

Milk Type and Treatment

Aged Gouda Cheese is made with cow, goat, or sheep milk that is typically pasteurized or unpasteurized. Pecorino Romano Cheese is made with sheep milk.

Composition and Texture

Aged Gouda's texture can be described as "hard". Pecorino Romano Cheese has a fat content of ~36%. Pecorino Romano's texture can be described as "hard".

Taste and Aroma

Aged Gouda's aroma can be described as "rich". Pecorino Romano Cheese has a sharp, salty taste. Pecorino Romano's aroma can be described as "strong".

Appearance and Aging

Aged Gouda Cheese's appearance is colored yellow . Pecorino Romano Cheese has a color of white interior, pale yellow to brown/black rind , comes in wheels, 49–71 lbs, 12–13" high, 11–12" wide and has an aging period of 5–8 months or longer .

Rind and Rennet Type

Aged Gouda Cheese's rind is described as waxed . Pecorino Romano Cheese's rind is described as pale yellow to brown or black , with rennet rennet.

Ranking

Aged Gouda is ranked #75 out of 996 types based on community views. Pecorino Romano is ranked #64 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

Aged Gouda Pecorino Romano
Best Pairings Almonds, Apples, Apricot, Asian Pear, Belgian Blonde, Bordeaux, Burgundy Red, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, California Viogniers, Champagne, Crackers, Dried Cranberries, Grapes, Green Apple, IPA, Malbec, Merlot, Muscat, Pear, Pecans, Prosciutto, Pumpkin, Salami, Sangiovese, Scotch, Sweet Potato, Viognier Olives
Other Good Pairings Amaro, Cava, Dried Figs, Ginger, Mangoes, Pistachios, Port, Roasted Vegetables, Strawberries, Tequila Amaro, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Pistachios

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Aged Gouda and Pecorino Romano pages.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Aged Gouda Cheese Pecorino Romano Cheese
Country of Origin Netherlands Italy
Specific Origin Not Specified Lazio, Sardinia, Grosseto
Certification Not Specified PDO (1996), DOP (1996)
Milk Type Cow's, goat's or sheep's milk Sheep's milk
Milk Treatment Pasteurized or unpasteurized Not Specified
Fat Content Not Specified ~36%
Rind Waxed Pale yellow to brown or black
Texture Hard Hard
Taste Not Specified Sharp, salty
Aroma Rich Strong
Colors Yellow White interior, pale yellow to brown/black rind
Forms Not Specified Wheels, 49–71 lbs, 12–13" high, 11–12" wide
Age Not Specified 5–8 months or longer
Rennet Type Not Specified Rennet

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a hard cheese, go for Aged Gouda. But if you enjoy a hard consistency, Pecorino Romano might be the better pick.

Compare Aged Gouda Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Pecorino Romano Cheese to Other Cheeses

Did you find what you are looking for?