Brunost Cheese vs Munster Cheese

In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Brunost Cheese and Munster Cheese, including:

• "What is the difference between Brunost Cheese and Munster Cheese?"
• "Is Brunost Cheese and Munster Cheese the same?"
• "How does Brunost Cheese compare to Munster Cheese cheese?"
• "How does the taste of Brunost Cheese compare to Munster Cheese?"
• "Is Brunost Cheese or Munster Cheese better?"

Brunost Cheese Overview

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.

Munster Cheese Overview

Munster is a strong-smelling, soft cheese from the Alsace and Lorraine regions of France. It has a washed rind, which gives it a red-orange color and a distinctive pungent aroma. The flavor is rich and tangy, often enjoyed with cumin seeds and paired with beers or strong wines.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Brunost Cheese comes from Denmark, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Norway and Sweden. Munster Cheese originated from France.

Certification

Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. Brunost is not a protected cheese. Munster Cheese has a AOC (1969).

Milk Type and Treatment

Brunost Cheese is made with cow and goat milk that is typically pasteurized or unpasteurized. Munster Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically unpasteurized.

Composition and Texture

Brunost's texture can be described as "semi-soft, whey". Munster Cheese has a fat content of 45-48%. Munster's texture can be described as "semisoft".

Taste and Aroma

Brunost Cheese has a caramel, sweet taste. Munster Cheese has a strong, gamey taste. Munster's aroma can be described as "gamey, aromatic".

Appearance and Aging

Brunost Cheese's appearance is colored brown . Munster Cheese has a color of orangey-pink to orange-red , comes in flat wheel, 1-3 inches high, 5-8 inches diameter and has an aging period of 4-6 weeks to 2-3 months .

Rind and Rennet Type

Brunost Cheese's rind is described as natural . Munster Cheese's rind is described as washed, saltwater solution , with traditional rennet.

Ranking

Brunost is ranked #5 out of 996 types based on community views. Munster is ranked #50 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Brunost and Munster pages.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a semi-soft, whey cheese, go for Brunost. But if you enjoy a semisoft consistency, Munster might be the better pick. Brunost has a caramel, sweet taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Munster offers a strong, gamey profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Brunost Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Munster Cheese to Other Cheeses