Casu marzu Cheese vs Sheep's Milk Cheese
Casu marzu Cheese is a soft, soft-ripened sheep-milk cheese from Italy, while Sheep's Milk Cheese is a sheep-milk cheese.
What Is Casu marzu Cheese?
Casu marzu is a Sardinian sheep milk cheese fermented by live cheese fly larvae, which eat through a pecorino wheel and break down its fats until the paste turns very soft. Its sale is banned in Italy and the EU, and Guinness World Records called it the world's most dangerous cheese.
What Is Sheep's Milk Cheese?
Sheep's milk cheese is cheese made from ewe's milk, one of the three main milks used for cheese alongside cow and goat. Because sheep milk is high in fat, these cheeses are known for a concentrated, full-bodied taste.
What's the Difference Between Casu marzu Cheese and Sheep's Milk Cheese?
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Casu marzu Cheese | Sheep's Milk Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Italy | — |
| Specific Origin | Sardinia (Italy), Southern Corsica (France) | — |
| Milk Type | Sheep's milk | Sheep |
| Texture | Soft, soft-ripened | — |
| Rind | Natural | — |
| Aging | 3 months | — |
| Taste | Intense, spicy | — |
Taste Comparison: Does Casu marzu Cheese Taste Like Sheep's Milk Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Casu marzu Cheese for Sheep's Milk Cheese?
In most recipes, Casu marzu Cheese and Sheep's Milk Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are sheep-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over.
Which Is Better, Casu marzu Cheese or Sheep's Milk 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 Casu marzu Cheese the same as Sheep's Milk Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses.
Is Casu marzu Cheese similar to Sheep's Milk Cheese?
Somewhat. They share a sheep-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.
Can I substitute Casu marzu Cheese for Sheep's Milk Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Casu marzu Cheese taste like Sheep's Milk Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Casu marzu Cheese made of?
Casu marzu Cheese is made from sheep milk. It's typically aged 3 months. It originates in Italy.
What is Sheep's Milk Cheese made of?
Sheep's Milk Cheese is made from sheep milk, using animal or microbial rennet.
Which should I choose, Casu marzu Cheese or Sheep's Milk Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.