Cabrales Cheese vs Pyrenees-Style Cheese
Cabrales Cheese is a unctuous, compact, no eyes cow-milk cheese from Spain, while Pyrenees-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 Pyrenees-Style Cheese?
Pyrenees-Style cheese is a semi-hard cheese made from cow's milk, originating from the mountainous region between France and Spain. It has a smooth and creamy texture with a mild, slightly nutty flavor. The cheese is aged for a few months, which helps develop its subtle taste and pleasant aroma. Its pale yellow interior is encased in a thin, natural rind that adds a gentle earthiness. Pyrenees-Style cheese melts well, making it a great choice for cooking or enjoying on its own with bread and fruit. This cheese pairs nicely with light red wines or a crisp white for a simple yet satisfying experience.
What's the Difference Between Cabrales Cheese and Pyrenees-Style Cheese?
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Cabrales Cheese | Pyrenees-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 Pyrenees-Style Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Cabrales Cheese for Pyrenees-Style Cheese?
Cabrales Cheese can stand in for Pyrenees-Style Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Cabrales Cheese or Pyrenees-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 Pyrenees-Style Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses.
Is Cabrales Cheese similar to Pyrenees-Style Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Cabrales Cheese for Pyrenees-Style Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Cabrales Cheese taste like Pyrenees-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 Pyrenees-Style Cheese made of?
Pyrenees-Style Cheese is made from milk.
Which should I choose, Cabrales Cheese or Pyrenees-Style Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.