Cardo Cheese vs Pljevlja Cheese
Cardo Cheese is a semi-soft, artisan goat-milk cheese from England, Scotland and Wales, while Pljevlja Cheese is soft to semihard and made from cow or sheep milk, originating in Montenegro.
What Is Cardo Cheese?
Cardo is a semi-soft artisan cheese made from pasteurized goat's milk in Timsbury, Somerset, England. It is crafted with a washed rind that contributes to its pungent aroma. The cheese has an ivory-colored interior with a creamy, smooth texture. Its flavor profile is a mix of floral, pungent, and savory notes, making it an interesting choice for those who enjoy bold cheeses. The cheese is enjoyed across England, Scotland, and Wales, offering a taste that reflects the region's cheese-making tradition. Ideal for pairing with crusty bread or a selection of fruits, Cardo makes a flavorful addition to any cheese board.
What Is Pljevlja Cheese?
Pljevlja is a traditional cheese from the northern region of Montenegro, made from cow's milk. It has a rich, creamy texture and a strong, salty flavor. Often served as part of a mezze platter, Pljevlja cheese is enjoyed with bread, olives, and sometimes drizzled with honey for a balance of flavors.
What's the Difference Between Cardo Cheese and Pljevlja Cheese?
- Origin: Cardo Cheese (England, Scotland and Wales), Pljevlja Cheese (Montenegro)
- Milk type: Cardo Cheese (goat's milk), Pljevlja Cheese (Sheep’s milk, cow’s milk, mixed)
- Texture: Cardo Cheese (semi-soft, artisan), Pljevlja Cheese (Soft to semihard)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Cardo Cheese | Pljevlja Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | England, Scotland And Wales | Montenegro |
| Specific Origin | Timsbury, Somerset | Northern Montenegro, Municipality Of Pljevlja |
| Milk Type | Goat's milk | Sheep’s milk, cow’s milk, mixed |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized | — |
| Texture | Semi-soft, artisan | Soft to semihard |
| Rind | Washed | — |
| Aging | — | 4 to 8 weeks |
| Taste | Floral, pungent, savory | — |
Taste Comparison: Does Cardo Cheese Taste Like Pljevlja Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Cardo Cheese for Pljevlja Cheese?
Cardo Cheese can stand in for Pljevlja Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe. Expect semi-soft, artisan bite and body where the recipe calls for soft to semihard.
Which Is Better, Cardo Cheese or Pljevlja Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a semi-soft, artisan cheese, go with Cardo Cheese. For a soft to semihard profile, Pljevlja Cheese is the better fit.
Which is your favorite?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cardo Cheese the same as Pljevlja Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Cardo Cheese originates in England, Scotland and Wales, while Pljevlja Cheese comes from Montenegro. Cardo Cheese is made from goat milk; Pljevlja Cheese uses cow or sheep.
Is Cardo Cheese similar to Pljevlja Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Cardo Cheese for Pljevlja Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in richness and milk character.
Does Cardo Cheese taste like Pljevlja Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Cardo Cheese made of?
Cardo Cheese is made from goat milk (pasteurized). It originates in England, Scotland and Wales.
What is Pljevlja Cheese made of?
Pljevlja Cheese is made from cow or sheep milk, using traditional, industrial rennet. It's typically aged 4 to 8 weeks. It originates in Montenegro.
Which should I choose, Cardo Cheese or Pljevlja Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Cardo Cheese is semi-soft, artisan, while Pljevlja Cheese is soft to semihard.