Aged Cheese vs Halloumi Cheese
Aged Cheese is a cheese, while Halloumi Cheese is semihard and made from cow, goat, and sheep milk, originating in Cyprus.
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 Halloumi Cheese?
Halloumi is a brined cheese from Cyprus, traditionally made from goat and sheep milk, though most modern halloumi also contains cow's milk. It has a high melting point, so it browns on the grill or in a pan without melting, and it squeaks when you chew it.
What's the Difference Between Aged Cheese and Halloumi Cheese?
- Aging: Aged Cheese (three weeks to two or more years), Halloumi Cheese (40 days)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aged Cheese | Halloumi Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | — | Cyprus |
| Specific Origin | — | Cyprus |
| Milk Type | — | Cow's, goat's and sheep's milk |
| Milk Treatment | — | Traditionally raw, pasteurized commercially |
| Texture | — | Semihard |
| Rind | — | No rind |
| Aging | Three weeks to two or more years | 40 days |
| Taste | — | Mild, salty |
Taste Comparison: Does Aged Cheese Taste Like Halloumi 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 Halloumi Cheese at 40 days.
Can You Substitute Aged Cheese for Halloumi Cheese?
Aged Cheese can stand in for Halloumi Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Aged Cheese or Halloumi 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 Halloumi Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Aging also differs: Aged Cheese is typically aged three weeks to two or more years, Halloumi Cheese 40 days.
Is Aged Cheese similar to Halloumi Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Aged Cheese for Halloumi Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Aged Cheese taste like Halloumi 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 Halloumi Cheese made of?
Halloumi Cheese is made from cow, goat, and sheep milk (traditionally raw, pasteurized commercially), using mostly vegetable or microbial rennet. It's typically aged 40 days. It originates in Cyprus.
Which should I choose, Aged Cheese or Halloumi Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.