Aged Cheese vs Pecorino Romano Cheese
Aged Cheese is a cheese, while Pecorino Romano Cheese is hard 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 Pecorino Romano Cheese?
Pecorino Romano is a hard, salty Italian cheese made only from sheep milk, most often grated over pasta. It began in the countryside around Rome and is now made almost entirely in Sardinia.
What's the Difference Between Aged Cheese and Pecorino Romano Cheese?
- Aging: Aged Cheese (three weeks to two or more years), Pecorino Romano Cheese (5–8 months or longer)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aged Cheese | Pecorino Romano Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | — | Italy |
| Specific Origin | — | Lazio, Sardinia, Grosseto |
| Milk Type | — | Sheep's milk |
| Texture | — | Hard |
| Rind | — | Pale yellow to brown or black |
| Aging | Three weeks to two or more years | 5–8 months or longer |
| Taste | — | Sharp, salty |
Taste Comparison: Does Aged Cheese Taste Like Pecorino Romano 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 Pecorino Romano Cheese at 5–8 months or longer.
Can You Substitute Aged Cheese for Pecorino Romano Cheese?
Aged Cheese can stand in for Pecorino Romano Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Aged Cheese or Pecorino Romano 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 Pecorino Romano Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Aging also differs: Aged Cheese is typically aged three weeks to two or more years, Pecorino Romano Cheese 5–8 months or longer.
Is Aged Cheese similar to Pecorino Romano Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Aged Cheese for Pecorino Romano Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Aged Cheese taste like Pecorino Romano 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 Pecorino Romano Cheese made of?
Pecorino Romano Cheese is made from sheep milk, using animal (sheep) rennet. It's typically aged 5–8 months or longer. It originates in Italy.
Which should I choose, Aged Cheese or Pecorino Romano Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.