Emmental Cheese vs Monterey Jack Cheese

In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Emmental Cheese and Monterey Jack Cheese, including:

• "What is the difference between Emmental Cheese and Monterey Jack Cheese?"
• "Is Emmental Cheese and Monterey Jack Cheese the same?"
• "How does Emmental Cheese compare to Monterey Jack Cheese cheese?"
• "How does the taste of Emmental Cheese compare to Monterey Jack Cheese?"
• "Is Emmental Cheese or Monterey Jack 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.

Monterey Jack Cheese Overview

Monterey Jack is a popular American cheese originating from Monterey, California. It's known for its mild flavor and semi-soft texture, making it an excellent melting cheese. Monterey Jack can be enjoyed on its own or used in a variety of dishes, particularly Mexican and American cuisines, such as quesadillas and burgers.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Emmental Cheese comes from Switzerland. Monterey Jack Cheese originated from Mexico and United States.

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). Monterey Jack is not a protected cheese.

Milk Type and Treatment

Emmental Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw. Monterey Jack 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". Monterey Jack Cheese has a fat content of not less than 50% on a dry basis and a moisture content of none. Monterey Jack's texture can be described as "mild to firm".

Taste and Aroma

Emmental Cheese has a nutty, sweet taste. Monterey Jack Cheese has a mild to full-flavored taste. Monterey Jack's aroma can be described as "aromatic".

Appearance and Aging

Emmental Cheese's appearance is colored yellow , is available in round loaves and is aged 4 months to over 1 year . Monterey Jack Cheese has a color of cream to golden and has an aging period of six weeks to ten months .

Rind and Rennet Type

Monterey Jack Cheese uses animal rennet.

Ranking

Emmental is ranked #16 out of 996 types based on community views. Monterey Jack is ranked #21 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Emmental and Monterey Jack pages.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a hard or medium-hard cheese, go for Emmental. But if you enjoy a mild to firm consistency, Monterey Jack might be the better pick. Emmental has a nutty, sweet taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Monterey Jack offers a mild to full-flavored profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Emmental Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Monterey Jack Cheese to Other Cheeses