Cheddar Cheese vs Rubens Cheese
Cheddar Cheese is a varies (rubbery to friable and crystalline) cow-milk cheese from England, while Rubens Cheese is semi-soft and made from cow milk, originating in Belgium.
What Is Cheddar Cheese?
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.
What Is Rubens Cheese?
Rubens is a semi-soft cheese from Belgium, made from cow's milk. It features a washed rind, which often gives it a slightly pungent aroma. The cheese has a creamy texture that is smooth and easy to slice. Its flavor is mild yet savory with a hint of nuttiness. The washed rind contributes to a subtle earthy taste, making it a pleasant choice for those who enjoy milder cheeses. Rubens pairs well with fresh fruits and crusty bread, and it can be a tasty addition to a cheese board.
What's the Difference Between Cheddar Cheese and Rubens Cheese?
- Origin: Cheddar Cheese (England), Rubens Cheese (Belgium)
- Texture: Cheddar Cheese (Varies (rubbery to friable and crystalline)), Rubens Cheese (semi-soft)
- Rind: Cheddar Cheese (Varies (natural, cloth, wax, plastic)), Rubens Cheese (washed)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Cheddar Cheese | Rubens Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | England | Belgium |
| Specific Origin | Southwest (Somerset, Gloucester) | — |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Raw, Thermized, Pasteurized | — |
| Texture | Varies (rubbery to friable and crystalline) | Semi-soft |
| Rind | Varies (natural, cloth, wax, plastic) | Washed |
| Aging | A few months to several years | — |
| Taste | Mild to sharp, buttery to brothy and savory | — |
Pairing Comparison
What works with each cheese — wines, foods, breads, and more.
| Cheddar Cheese | Rubens Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pairings | Chicken, Ham, Macaroni and Cheese, Merlot, Tuna, Turkey | — |
| Other Good Pairings | Kombucha, Tomatoes | — |
Which would you pick?
One click, anonymous — see what others chose.
Where to buy Cheddar Cheese and Rubens Cheese
Cheddar Cheese
Rubens Cheese
Taste Comparison: Does Cheddar Cheese Taste Like Rubens Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Cheddar Cheese for Rubens Cheese?
In most recipes, Cheddar Cheese and Rubens Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over. Expect varies (rubbery to friable and crystalline) bite and body where the recipe calls for semi-soft.
Which Is Better, Cheddar Cheese or Rubens Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a varies (rubbery to friable and crystalline) cheese, go with Cheddar Cheese. For a semi-soft profile, Rubens Cheese is the better fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cheddar Cheese the same as Rubens Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Cheddar Cheese originates in England, while Rubens Cheese comes from Belgium.
Is Cheddar Cheese similar to Rubens Cheese?
Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.
Can I substitute Cheddar Cheese for Rubens Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in bite and mouthfeel.
Does Cheddar Cheese taste like Rubens Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Cheddar Cheese made of?
Cheddar Cheese is made from cow milk (raw, thermized, pasteurized). It's typically aged a few months to several years. It originates in England.
What is Rubens Cheese made of?
Rubens Cheese is made from cow milk. It originates in Belgium.
Which should I choose, Cheddar Cheese or Rubens Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Cheddar Cheese is varies (rubbery to friable and crystalline), while Rubens Cheese is semi-soft.
See full profiles: Cheddar Cheese and Rubens Cheese.