Aged Cheese vs Casu marzu Cheese
Aged Cheese is a cheese, while Casu marzu Cheese is soft, soft-ripened and made from sheep milk, originating in Italy.
What Is Aged Cheese?
Aged cheese is cheese that has gone through ripening, the stage after manufacture when enzymes, bacteria and moulds build its taste, texture and body. Ripening runs from about three weeks to more than two years, and all cheese except fresh cheese gets it.
What Is Casu marzu Cheese?
Casu marzu is a Sardinian sheep milk cheese fermented by live cheese fly larvae, which eat through a pecorino wheel and break down its fats until the paste turns very soft. Its sale is banned in Italy and the EU, and Guinness World Records called it the world's most dangerous cheese.
What's the Difference Between Aged Cheese and Casu marzu Cheese?
- Aging: Aged Cheese (three weeks to two or more years), Casu marzu Cheese (3 months)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aged Cheese | Casu marzu Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | — | Italy |
| Specific Origin | — | Sardinia (Italy), Southern Corsica (France) |
| Milk Type | — | Sheep's milk |
| Texture | — | Soft, soft-ripened |
| Rind | — | Natural |
| Aging | Three weeks to two or more years | 3 months |
| Taste | — | Intense, spicy |
Taste Comparison: Does Aged Cheese Taste Like Casu marzu Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct. Aging plays into this as well. Aged Cheese at three weeks to two or more years develops a different profile than Casu marzu Cheese at 3 months.
Can You Substitute Aged Cheese for Casu marzu Cheese?
Aged Cheese can stand in for Casu marzu Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Aged Cheese or Casu marzu 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 Aged Cheese the same as Casu marzu Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Aging also differs: Aged Cheese is typically aged three weeks to two or more years, Casu marzu Cheese 3 months.
Is Aged Cheese similar to Casu marzu Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Aged Cheese for Casu marzu Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Aged Cheese taste like Casu marzu Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Aged Cheese made of?
Aged Cheese is made from milk. It's typically aged three weeks to two or more years.
What is Casu marzu Cheese made of?
Casu marzu Cheese is made from sheep milk. It's typically aged 3 months. It originates in Italy.
Which should I choose, Aged Cheese or Casu marzu Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.