Brunost Cheese vs Five Counties Cheese
Brunost Cheese is a semi-soft, whey cow and goat-milk cheese from Denmark, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Norway and Sweden, while Five Counties Cheese is semi-firm and made from cow milk, originating in England.
What Is Brunost Cheese?
Brunost, or "brown cheese," is a distinctly Norwegian dairy product, often classified as a cheese, though it differs from traditional cheeses. It is made by boiling down the whey of goat's milk, cow's milk, or a combination of both, until the water evaporates, and the natural milk sugars caramelize. This process gives Brunost its unique brown color, sweet caramel-like flavor, and fudge-like texture. It is commonly sliced thin and served on bread, crispbreads, or waffles.
What Is Five Counties Cheese?
Five Counties cheese, originating from Somerset, England, is a semi-firm cheese made from cow's milk. It is known for its layered appearance, featuring five different types of English cheeses stacked together. The flavor is buttery and mild, with a touch of saltiness, making it a pleasant choice for those who enjoy a balanced taste. Its aroma is subtle, adding to its approachable nature. This cheese is also referred to as Five Territories, Five Shires, or Saxonshire. It is often enjoyed on cheese boards or paired with crackers and fruits for a simple yet satisfying snack.
What's the Difference Between Brunost Cheese and Five Counties Cheese?
- Origin: Brunost Cheese (Denmark, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Norway and Sweden), Five Counties Cheese (England)
- Milk type: Brunost Cheese (cow's and goat's milk), Five Counties Cheese (cow's milk)
- Texture: Brunost Cheese (semi-soft, whey), Five Counties Cheese (semi-firm)
- Taste: Brunost Cheese (caramel, sweet), Five Counties Cheese (buttery, mild, salty)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Brunost Cheese | Five Counties Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Denmark, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Norway And Sweden | England |
| Specific Origin | — | Somerset |
| Milk Type | Cow's and goat's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized or unpasteurized | — |
| Texture | Semi-soft, whey | Semi-firm |
| Rind | Natural | — |
| Taste | Caramel, sweet | Buttery, mild, salty |
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Where to buy Brunost Cheese and Five Counties Cheese
Brunost Cheese
Five Counties Cheese
Taste Comparison: Does Brunost Cheese Taste Like Five Counties Cheese?
Brunost Cheese reads as caramel, sweet, while Five Counties Cheese brings buttery, mild, salty character.
Can You Substitute Brunost Cheese for Five Counties Cheese?
Brunost Cheese can stand in for Five Counties Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe. Expect semi-soft, whey bite and body where the recipe calls for semi-firm. Flavor-wise, Brunost Cheese reads as caramel, sweet while Five Counties Cheese brings buttery, mild, salty notes.
Which Is Better, Brunost Cheese or Five Counties Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a semi-soft, whey cheese, go with Brunost Cheese. For a semi-firm profile, Five Counties Cheese is the better fit. Flavor-wise, Brunost Cheese suits recipes that want caramel, sweet notes, while Five Counties Cheese fits dishes calling for buttery, mild, salty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Brunost Cheese the same as Five Counties Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Brunost Cheese originates in Denmark, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Norway and Sweden, while Five Counties Cheese comes from England. Brunost Cheese is made from cow and goat milk; Five Counties Cheese uses cow.
Is Brunost Cheese similar to Five Counties Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Brunost Cheese for Five Counties Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in richness and milk character.
Does Brunost Cheese taste like Five Counties Cheese?
Brunost Cheese reads as caramel, sweet, while Five Counties Cheese is buttery, mild, salty.
What is Brunost Cheese made of?
Brunost Cheese is made from cow and goat milk (pasteurized or unpasteurized). It originates in Denmark, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Norway and Sweden.
What is Five Counties Cheese made of?
Five Counties Cheese is made from cow milk. It originates in England.
Which should I choose, Brunost Cheese or Five Counties Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Brunost Cheese is semi-soft, whey, while Five Counties Cheese is semi-firm.
See full profiles: Brunost Cheese and Five Counties Cheese.