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Emmental Cheese vs Munster Cheese
Emmental Cheese
Munster Cheese
In this article, we’ll explore the answers to the most common questions about Emmental Cheese and Munster Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between Emmental Cheese and Munster Cheese?"
- "Is Emmental Cheese and Munster Cheese the same?"
- "How does Emmental Cheese compare to Munster Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of Emmental Cheese compare to Munster Cheese?"
- "Is Emmental Cheese or Munster 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.
Munster Cheese Overview
Munster is a strong-smelling, soft cheese from the Alsace and Lorraine regions of France. It has a washed rind, which gives it a red-orange color and a distinctive pungent aroma. The flavor is rich and tangy, often enjoyed with cumin seeds and paired with beers or strong wines.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Ranking
Emmental is ranked #17 out of 377 types.
Munster is ranked #57 out of 377 types.
Country of Origin
Emmental Cheese comes from Switzerland. Munster Cheese originated from France.
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). Munster Cheese has a AOC (1969).
Milk Type and Treatment
Emmental Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw. Munster Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw.
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". Munster Cheese has a fat content of 45-48%. Munster's texture can be described as "semisoft".
Flavor and Aroma
Emmental Cheese has a nutty, sweet flavor. Munster Cheese has a strong, gamey flavor. Munster's aroma can be described as "gamey, 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 . Munster Cheese has a color of orangey-pink to orange-red , comes in flat wheel, 1-3 inches high, 5-8 inches diameter and has an aging period of 4-6 weeks to 2-3 months .
Rind and Rennet Type
Munster Cheese's rind is described as washed, saltwater solution , with traditional rennet.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Emmental Cheese | Munster Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Switzerland | France |
| Specific Origin | Emmental, Canton of Bern | Alsace, Lorraine, Franche-Comté |
| Certification | PDO (2004) | AOC (1969) |
| Milk Type | Raw Cow's Milk | Cow's |
| Milk Treatment | Raw | Raw |
| Fat Content | Minimum of 45% (dry matter) | 45-48% |
| Rind | Washed, saltwater solution | |
| Texture | Hard or medium-hard | Semisoft |
| Flavor | Nutty, sweet | Strong, gamey |
| Aroma | Gamey, aromatic | |
| Colors | Yellow | Orangey-pink to orange-red |
| Forms | Round loaves | Flat wheel, 1-3 inches high, 5-8 inches diameter |
| Age | 4 months to over 1 year | 4-6 weeks to 2-3 months |
| Rennet Type | Traditional rennet |
