Aged Cheese vs Provolone Cheese
Aged Cheese is a cheese, while Provolone Cheese is semi-hard, artisan and made from cow 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 Provolone Cheese?
Provolone is an Italian semi-hard cheese made from cow's milk with a stretched curd. It runs from the very sharp piccante, aged at least four months, to the mild dolce.
What's the Difference Between Aged Cheese and Provolone Cheese?
- Aging: Aged Cheese (three weeks to two or more years), Provolone Cheese (at least 4 months for piccante)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aged Cheese | Provolone Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | — | Italy |
| Specific Origin | — | Campania, Italy |
| Milk Type | — | Cow's milk |
| Texture | — | Semi-hard, artisan |
| Aging | Three weeks to two or more years | At least 4 months for piccante |
| Taste | — | Tangy |
Taste Comparison: Does Aged Cheese Taste Like Provolone 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 Provolone Cheese at at least 4 months for piccante.
Can You Substitute Aged Cheese for Provolone Cheese?
Aged Cheese can stand in for Provolone Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Aged Cheese or Provolone 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 Provolone Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Aging also differs: Aged Cheese is typically aged three weeks to two or more years, Provolone Cheese at least 4 months for piccante.
Is Aged Cheese similar to Provolone Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Aged Cheese for Provolone Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Aged Cheese taste like Provolone 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 Provolone Cheese made of?
Provolone Cheese is made from cow milk. It's typically aged at least 4 months for piccante. It originates in Italy.
Which should I choose, Aged Cheese or Provolone Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.