Emmental Cheese vs Pecorino Romano Cheese

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

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

Pecorino Romano Cheese Overview

Pecorino Romano is one of the most ancient types of cheese and a staple in Italian cuisine. Made from sheep's milk, it is salty and sharp, traditionally used grated over pasta dishes, incorporated into sauces, or eaten on its own with a drizzle of honey. Pecorino Romano is predominantly produced in the regions of Lazio, Sardinia, and Tuscany.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Emmental Cheese comes from Switzerland. Pecorino Romano Cheese originated from Italy.

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). Pecorino Romano Cheese has a PDO (1996), DOP (1996).

Milk Type and Treatment

Emmental Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw. Pecorino Romano Cheese is made with sheep milk.

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". Pecorino Romano Cheese has a fat content of ~36%. Pecorino Romano's texture can be described as "hard".

Taste and Aroma

Emmental Cheese has a nutty, sweet taste. Pecorino Romano Cheese has a sharp, salty taste. Pecorino Romano's aroma can be described as "strong".

Appearance and Aging

Emmental Cheese's appearance is colored yellow , is available in round loaves and is aged 4 months to over 1 year . Pecorino Romano Cheese has a color of white interior, pale yellow to brown/black rind , comes in wheels, 49–71 lbs, 12–13" high, 11–12" wide and has an aging period of 5–8 months or longer .

Rind and Rennet Type

Pecorino Romano Cheese's rind is described as pale yellow to brown or black , with rennet rennet.

Ranking

Emmental is ranked #14 out of 996 types based on community views. Pecorino Romano is ranked #68 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Emmental and Pecorino Romano 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 hard consistency, Pecorino Romano might be the better pick. Emmental has a nutty, sweet taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Pecorino Romano offers a sharp, salty profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Emmental Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Pecorino Romano Cheese to Other Cheeses