Aged Cheese vs Raclette Cheese
Aged Cheese is a cheese, while Raclette Cheese is semisoft, smooth and made from cow milk, originating in Switzerland.
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 Raclette Cheese?
Raclette is a Swiss cheese and the dish made from it: the cheese is heated and the melted part is scraped off, usually onto boiled potatoes. It comes from the canton of Valais, where the cheese carries an AOP.
What's the Difference Between Aged Cheese and Raclette Cheese?
- Aging: Aged Cheese (three weeks to two or more years), Raclette Cheese (3-4 months)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aged Cheese | Raclette Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | — | Switzerland |
| Specific Origin | — | Alpine Regions |
| Milk Type | — | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | — | Raw |
| Texture | — | Semisoft, smooth |
| Rind | — | Washed |
| Aging | Three weeks to two or more years | 3-4 months |
| Taste | — | Mildly acidic |
Taste Comparison: Does Aged Cheese Taste Like Raclette 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 Raclette Cheese at 3-4 months.
Can You Substitute Aged Cheese for Raclette Cheese?
Aged Cheese can stand in for Raclette Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Aged Cheese or Raclette 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 Raclette Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Aging also differs: Aged Cheese is typically aged three weeks to two or more years, Raclette Cheese 3-4 months.
Is Aged Cheese similar to Raclette Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Aged Cheese for Raclette Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Aged Cheese taste like Raclette 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 Raclette Cheese made of?
Raclette Cheese is made from cow milk (raw), using animal rennet. It's typically aged 3-4 months. It originates in Switzerland.
Which should I choose, Aged Cheese or Raclette Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.