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Camembert Cheese vs Parmesan Cheese
Camembert Cheese
Parmesan Cheese
In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Camembert Cheese and Parmesan Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between Camembert Cheese and Parmesan Cheese?"
- "Is Camembert Cheese and Parmesan Cheese the same?"
- "How does Camembert Cheese compare to Parmesan Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of Camembert Cheese compare to Parmesan Cheese?"
- "Is Camembert Cheese or Parmesan Cheese better?"
Camembert Cheese Overview
Camembert is a famous French cheese with a soft, creamy interior and a bloomy rind. It's made from cow's milk and has a rich, buttery flavor with earthy undertones. True Camembert from Normandy has a slightly more intense flavor compared to other varieties and becomes runnier as it ages.
Parmesan Cheese Overview
Parmesan, often referred to by its Italian name, Parmigiano-Reggiano, is a hard, granular cheese known for its rich flavor and grainy texture. Made from cow's milk, it's aged for a minimum of 12 months, often much longer, to develop its distinct nutty and savory profile. Parmesan is a staple in Italian cuisine, commonly grated over pasta dishes, stirred into soups, or eaten on its own.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Country of Origin
Camembert Cheese comes from France. Parmesan Cheese originated from Italy.
Milk Type and Treatment
Camembert Cheese is made with cow milk. Parmesan Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically unpasteurized.
Composition and Texture
Camembert's texture can be described as "soft, artisan". Parmesan's texture can be described as "hard, artisan".
Taste and Aroma
Camembert Cheese has a sweet taste. Camembert's aroma can be described as "buttery, rich". Parmesan Cheese has a salty, savory taste. Parmesan's aroma can be described as "nutty, strong".
Appearance and Aging
Camembert Cheese's appearance is colored pale yellow . Parmesan Cheese has a color of straw .
Rind and Rennet Type
Camembert Cheese's rind is described as bloomy . Parmesan Cheese's rind is described as natural .
Ranking
Camembert is ranked #11 out of 996 types based on community views. Parmesan is ranked #42 out of 996 types based on community views.
Pairing Comparison
| Camembert | Parmesan | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pairings | Beaujolais, Bordeaux, Burgundy Red, Gamay, Grüner Veltliner, Hard Cider, Viognier | No pairings listed. |
| Other Good Pairings | Cabernet Franc, Cava, Champagne, Crackers, Fig Jam, Fruit Compote, Grapes, Kolsch, Merlot, Raspberry, Sparkling Rosé, White Burgundy | Shrimp |
For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Camembert and Parmesan pages.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Camembert Cheese | Parmesan Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | France | Italy |
| Specific Origin | Not Specified | Not Specified |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Not Specified | Unpasteurized |
| Rind | Bloomy | Natural |
| Texture | Soft, artisan | Hard, artisan |
| Taste | Sweet | Salty, savory |
| Aroma | Buttery, rich | Nutty, strong |
| Colors | Pale yellow | Straw |
Which One Should You Choose?
If you prefer a soft, artisan cheese, go for Camembert. But if you enjoy a hard, artisan consistency, Parmesan might be the better pick. Camembert has a sweet taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Parmesan offers a salty, savory profile, ideal for different meals.
