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Cheddar Cheese vs Derby Cheese
Cheddar Cheese
Derby Cheese
In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Cheddar Cheese and Derby Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between Cheddar Cheese and Derby Cheese?"
- "Is Cheddar Cheese and Derby Cheese the same?"
- "How does Cheddar Cheese compare to Derby Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of Cheddar Cheese compare to Derby Cheese?"
- "Is Cheddar Cheese or Derby Cheese better?"
Cheddar Cheese Overview
Cheddar cheese, perhaps the most famous cheese from England, originated in the village of Cheddar in Somerset. It ranges from mild to extra sharp, with aging times that can extend several years. Cheddar has a firm texture and a deep, nutty flavor that becomes increasingly complex as it matures.
Derby Cheese Overview
Derby cheese originates from Derbyshire, England, and is made from cow's milk. It is a semi-firm, ivory-colored cheese that is known for its buttery and mild flavor, with a hint of sweetness. The aroma is gentle, making it an approachable choice for many cheese enthusiasts. Derby is often compared to Cheddar, but it is usually softer and more moist. It is traditionally used in sandwiches or melted over dishes, but it can also be enjoyed on its own as a snack.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Country of Origin
Cheddar Cheese comes from England. Derby Cheese originated from England and United Kingdom.
Milk Type and Treatment
Cheddar Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw, pasteurized, or thermized. Derby Cheese is made with cow milk.
Composition and Texture
Cheddar Cheese has a fat content of at least 50% fat in dry matter and a moisture content of up to 39%. Cheddar's texture can be described as "varies (rubbery to friable and crystalline)". Derby's texture can be described as "semi-firm, artisan".
Taste and Aroma
Cheddar Cheese has a mild to sharp, buttery to brothy and savory taste. Cheddar's aroma can be described as "varies". Derby Cheese has a buttery, mild, sweet taste. Derby's aroma can be described as "mild".
Appearance and Aging
Cheddar Cheese's appearance is colored natural or dyed orange , is available in tiny truckles to 650-pound blocks and is aged a few months to several years . Derby Cheese has a color of ivory .
Rind and Rennet Type
Cheddar Cheese's rind is described as varies (natural, cloth, wax, plastic) .
Ranking
Cheddar is ranked #1 out of 996 types based on community views. Derby is ranked #469 out of 996 types based on community views.
Pairing Comparison
| Cheddar | Derby | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pairings | Chicken, Ham, Macaroni and Cheese, Merlot, Tuna, Turkey | No pairings listed. |
| Other Good Pairings | Kombucha, Tomatoes | No additional pairings listed. |
For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Cheddar and Derby pages.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Cheddar Cheese | Derby Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | England | England And United Kingdom |
| Specific Origin | Southwest (Somerset, Gloucester) | Derbyshire |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Raw, Thermized, Pasteurized | Not Specified |
| Fat Content | At least 50% fat in dry matter | Not Specified |
| Moisture Content | Up to 39% | Not Specified |
| Rind | Varies (natural, cloth, wax, plastic) | Not Specified |
| Texture | Varies (rubbery to friable and crystalline) | Semi-firm, artisan |
| Taste | Mild to sharp, buttery to brothy and savory | Buttery, mild, sweet |
| Aroma | Varies | Mild |
| Colors | Natural or dyed orange | Ivory |
| Forms | Tiny truckles to 650-pound blocks | Not Specified |
| Age | A few months to several years | Not Specified |
Which One Should You Choose?
If you prefer a varies (rubbery to friable and crystalline) cheese, go for Cheddar. But if you enjoy a semi-firm, artisan consistency, Derby might be the better pick. Cheddar has a mild to sharp, buttery to brothy and savory taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Derby offers a buttery, mild, sweet profile, ideal for different meals.
