Cabrales Cheese vs Pecorino-Style Cheese
Cabrales Cheese is a unctuous, compact, no eyes cow-milk cheese from Spain, while Pecorino-Style Cheese is .
What Is Cabrales Cheese?
Cabrales is a blue cheese made by rural dairy farmers in the Asturias mountains of Spain, from raw cow's milk alone or blended with goat and sheep milk. It is known for its strong, sometimes sharply acidic flavor and for ripening in limestone caves.
What Is Pecorino-Style Cheese?
Pecorino-Style cheese is a hard, aged cheese made from sheep's milk, inspired by traditional Italian Pecorino. It has a crumbly texture and a sharp, salty flavor with a hint of nuttiness. The cheese is typically pale yellow, with a natural rind that can be dark brown or black. As it ages, the flavor becomes more intense and the texture drier. It's commonly used for grating over pasta dishes or enjoyed on a cheese board with fruits and nuts. Pecorino-Style cheese pairs well with robust red wines and can be a flavorful addition to salads and soups.
What's the Difference Between Cabrales Cheese and Pecorino-Style Cheese?
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Cabrales Cheese | Pecorino-Style Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Spain | — |
| Specific Origin | Asturias | — |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | — |
| Milk Treatment | Unpasteurized | — |
| Texture | Unctuous, compact, no eyes | — |
| Rind | Natural | — |
| Aging | 2 to 3 months | — |
| Taste | Intense, piquant | — |
Taste Comparison: Does Cabrales Cheese Taste Like Pecorino-Style Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Cabrales Cheese for Pecorino-Style Cheese?
Cabrales Cheese can stand in for Pecorino-Style Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Cabrales Cheese or Pecorino-Style 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 Cabrales Cheese the same as Pecorino-Style Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses.
Is Cabrales Cheese similar to Pecorino-Style Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Cabrales Cheese for Pecorino-Style Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Cabrales Cheese taste like Pecorino-Style Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Cabrales Cheese made of?
Cabrales Cheese is made from cow milk (unpasteurized), using kid rennet. It's typically aged 2 to 3 months. It originates in Spain.
What is Pecorino-Style Cheese made of?
Pecorino-Style Cheese is made from milk.
Which should I choose, Cabrales Cheese or Pecorino-Style Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.