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Emmental Cheese vs Havarti Cheese
Emmental Cheese
Havarti Cheese
In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Emmental Cheese and Havarti Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between Emmental Cheese and Havarti Cheese?"
- "Is Emmental Cheese and Havarti Cheese the same?"
- "How does Emmental Cheese compare to Havarti Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of Emmental Cheese compare to Havarti Cheese?"
- "Is Emmental Cheese or Havarti Cheese better?"
Emmental Cheese Overview
Emmental is a classic Swiss cheese, known for its large holes and nutty, mild flavor. It is made from cow's milk and has a hard, dense texture. The holes, or "eyes," develop during the fermentation process as a result of gas released by the bacteria in the cheese. Emmental is often used in sandwiches and is a key ingredient in traditional Swiss fondue.
Havarti Cheese Overview
Havarti is a semi-soft Danish cheese known for its creamy texture and mild, slightly tangy flavor. It is typically made from cow's milk and is a table cheese that can be sliced, grilled, or melted. Havarti may also be flavored with spices, herbs, or other additives to enhance its taste.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Country of Origin
Emmental Cheese comes from Switzerland. Havarti Cheese originated from Denmark.
Certification
Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. Emmental Cheese has a PDO (2004). Havarti Cheese has a PGI (2010).
Milk Type and Treatment
Emmental Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw. Havarti Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized.
Composition and Texture
Emmental Cheese has a fat content of minimum of 45% (dry matter). Emmental's texture can be described as "hard or medium-hard". Havarti Cheese has a fat content of max 50% moisture, min 23% fat and a moisture content of none. Havarti's texture can be described as "smooth".
Taste and Aroma
Emmental Cheese has a nutty, sweet taste. Havarti Cheese has a mild, buttery taste. Havarti's aroma can be described as "pungent aroma, earthy taste".
Appearance and Aging
Emmental Cheese's appearance is colored yellow , is available in round loaves and is aged 4 months to over 1 year . Havarti Cheese comes in rectangular .
Rind and Rennet Type
Havarti Cheese's rind is described as washed rind .
Ranking
Emmental is ranked #16 out of 996 types based on community views. Havarti is ranked #11 out of 996 types based on community views.
Pairing Comparison
| Emmental | Havarti | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pairings | No pairings listed. | Kolsch, Pinot Gris, Riesling |
| Other Good Pairings | Dijon Mustard | Apples, Asian Pear, Asparagus, Belgian Blonde, California Viogniers, Champagne, Crackers, Dirty Martini, Green Apple, Green Tea, Grilled Cheese, Hard Cider, IPA, Kombucha, Pistachios, Sauvignon Blanc, Shrimp, Sparkling Rosé, Viognier |
For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Emmental and Havarti pages.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Emmental Cheese | Havarti Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Switzerland | Denmark |
| Specific Origin | Emmental, Canton Of Bern | No Specific Location |
| Certification | PDO (2004) | PGI (2010) |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Raw | Pasteurized |
| Fat Content | Minimum of 45% (dry matter) | Max 50% moisture, min 23% fat |
| Moisture Content | Not Specified | 40–45% (Typically) |
| Rind | Not Specified | Washed rind |
| Texture | Hard or medium-hard | Smooth |
| Taste | Nutty, sweet | Mild, buttery |
| Aroma | Not Specified | Pungent aroma, earthy taste |
| Colors | Yellow | Not Specified |
| Forms | Round loaves | Rectangular |
| Age | 4 months to over 1 year | Not Specified |
Which One Should You Choose?
If you prefer a hard or medium-hard cheese, go for Emmental. But if you enjoy a smooth consistency, Havarti might be the better pick. Emmental has a nutty, sweet taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Havarti offers a mild, buttery profile, ideal for different meals.
