American Cheese vs L'Etivaz Cheese

In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about American Cheese and L'Etivaz Cheese, including:

  • "What is the difference between American Cheese and L'Etivaz Cheese?"
  • "Is American Cheese and L'Etivaz Cheese the same?"
  • "How does American Cheese compare to L'Etivaz Cheese cheese?"
  • "How does the taste of American Cheese compare to L'Etivaz Cheese?"
  • "Is American Cheese or L'Etivaz Cheese better?"

American Cheese Overview

A staple in American cuisine, this processed cheese is known for its excellent melting properties and smooth texture. American cheese is typically mild and creamy, designed to be versatile in dishes like burgers and grilled sandwiches. It's available in various colors and flavors, tailored to suit different tastes and recipes.

L'Etivaz Cheese Overview

L'Etivaz is a hard Alpine cheese from the Vaud region of Switzerland, similar to Gruyère but made in a more artisanal fashion. It is produced only from May to October, using milk from cows grazing on mountain pastures. The cheese has a complex flavor, with fruity, nutty notes and a hint of smokiness, developed during the traditional wood-fired production process.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

American Cheese comes from United States. L'Etivaz Cheese originated from Switzerland.

Certification

Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. American is not a protected cheese. L'Etivaz Cheese has a GI (2011).

Milk Type and Treatment

American Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized. L'Etivaz Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically unpasteurized.

Composition and Texture

American's texture can be described as "semi-soft, processed". L'Etivaz's texture can be described as "hard".

Taste and Aroma

American's aroma can be described as "mild". L'Etivaz's aroma can be described as "smokey".

Appearance and Aging

American Cheese's appearance is colored yellow . L'Etivaz Cheese has a color of pale yellow .

Rind and Rennet Type

American Cheese's rind is described as rindless .

Ranking

American is ranked #101 out of 996 types based on community views. L'Etivaz is ranked #77 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

American L'Etivaz
Best Pairings Grilled Cheese No pairings listed.
Other Good Pairings No additional pairings listed. No additional pairings listed.

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the American and L'Etivaz pages.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

American Cheese L'Etivaz Cheese
Country of Origin United States Switzerland
Specific Origin Not Specified Not Specified
Certification Not Specified GI (2011)
Milk Type Cow's milk Cow's milk
Milk Treatment Pastuerized Unpasteurized
Rind Rindless Not Specified
Texture Semi-soft, processed Hard
Aroma Mild Smokey
Colors Yellow Pale yellow

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a semi-soft, processed cheese, go for American. But if you enjoy a hard consistency, L'Etivaz might be the better pick.

Compare American Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare L'Etivaz Cheese to Other Cheeses

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