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Emmental Cheese vs Provolone Cheese
Emmental Cheese
Provolone Cheese
In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Emmental Cheese and Provolone Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between Emmental Cheese and Provolone Cheese?"
- "Is Emmental Cheese and Provolone Cheese the same?"
- "How does Emmental Cheese compare to Provolone Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of Emmental Cheese compare to Provolone Cheese?"
- "Is Emmental Cheese or Provolone 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.
Provolone Cheese Overview
Provolone is a well-known Italian cheese with a smooth, firm texture and a mild, slightly tangy flavor that becomes sharper and more robust with age. Made from cow's milk, this stretched-curd cheese can be aged from a few months to a year or more. Provolone is excellent for slicing, grating, or melting.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Country of Origin
Emmental Cheese comes from Switzerland. Provolone 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). Provolone is not a protected cheese.
Milk Type and Treatment
Emmental Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw. Provolone Cheese is made with cow 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". Provolone's texture can be described as "semi-hard, artisan".
Taste and Aroma
Emmental Cheese has a nutty, sweet taste. Provolone Cheese has a tangy taste. Provolone's aroma can be described as "pleasant".
Appearance and Aging
Emmental Cheese's appearance is colored yellow , is available in round loaves and is aged 4 months to over 1 year . Provolone Cheese has a color of pale yellow .
Ranking
Emmental is ranked #14 out of 996 types based on community views. Provolone is ranked #5 out of 996 types based on community views.
Pairing Comparison
| Emmental | Provolone | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pairings | No pairings listed. | Pastrami, Salami |
| Other Good Pairings | Dijon Mustard | Chorizo, Grilled Cheese, Ham, Pinot Grigio, Pulled Pork, Roast Beef, Steak, Tomatoes, Tuna, Turkey |
For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Emmental and Provolone pages.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Emmental Cheese | Provolone Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Switzerland | Italy |
| Specific Origin | Emmental, Canton Of Bern | Not Specified |
| Certification | PDO (2004) | Not Specified |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Raw | Not Specified |
| Fat Content | Minimum of 45% (dry matter) | Not Specified |
| Texture | Hard or medium-hard | Semi-hard, artisan |
| Taste | Nutty, sweet | Tangy |
| Aroma | Not Specified | Pleasant |
| Colors | Yellow | Pale yellow |
| Forms | Round loaves | Not Specified |
| 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 semi-hard, artisan consistency, Provolone might be the better pick. Emmental has a nutty, sweet taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Provolone offers a tangy profile, ideal for different meals.
