Aged Cheese vs Idiazabal Cheese
Aged Cheese is a cheese, while Idiazabal Cheese is firm, slightly elastic and made from sheep milk, originating in Spain.
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 Idiazabal Cheese?
Idiazabal is a pressed sheep's milk cheese from the Basque Country, made with unpasteurized milk and named after a town in Gipuzkoa. It is usually sold unsmoked, tastes strong and slightly piquant, and has held a Denomination of Origin since 1987.
What's the Difference Between Aged Cheese and Idiazabal Cheese?
- Aging: Aged Cheese (three weeks to two or more years), Idiazabal Cheese (60 days)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aged Cheese | Idiazabal Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | — | Spain |
| Specific Origin | — | Basque Country, Navarre |
| Milk Type | — | Sheep |
| Milk Treatment | — | Raw |
| Texture | — | Firm, slightly elastic |
| Rind | — | Hard, smooth |
| Aging | Three weeks to two or more years | 60 days |
| Taste | — | Intense, slightly piquant |
Taste Comparison: Does Aged Cheese Taste Like Idiazabal 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 Idiazabal Cheese at 60 days.
Can You Substitute Aged Cheese for Idiazabal Cheese?
Aged Cheese can stand in for Idiazabal Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Aged Cheese or Idiazabal 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 Idiazabal Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Aging also differs: Aged Cheese is typically aged three weeks to two or more years, Idiazabal Cheese 60 days.
Is Aged Cheese similar to Idiazabal Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Aged Cheese for Idiazabal Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Aged Cheese taste like Idiazabal 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 Idiazabal Cheese made of?
Idiazabal Cheese is made from sheep milk (raw), using traditional lamb rennet. It's typically aged 60 days. It originates in Spain.
Which should I choose, Aged Cheese or Idiazabal Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.