Emmental Cheese vs Ricotta Cheese

Emmental Cheese

Ricotta Cheese

In this article, we’ll explore the answers to the most common questions about Emmental Cheese and Ricotta Cheese, including:

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

Ricotta Cheese Overview

Ricotta is a soft Italian cheese made from the whey left over from the production of other cheeses, primarily sheep, cow, goat, or buffalo milk. It has a creamy texture and a mild, sweet flavor, making it versatile for both savory dishes, like lasagna and ravioli, and sweet dishes, such as cheesecakes and cannoli.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Ranking

Emmental is ranked #26 out of 375 types.

Ricotta is ranked #23 out of 375 types.

Country of Origin

Emmental Cheese comes from Switzerland. Ricotta 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). Ricotta is not a protected cheese.

Milk Type and Treatment

Emmental Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw. Ricotta Cheese is made with cow, sheep, or buffalo milk that is typically unknown.

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". Ricotta Cheese has a fat content of varies and a moisture content of none. Ricotta's texture can be described as "soft, moist".

Flavor and Aroma

Emmental Cheese has a nutty, sweet flavor. Ricotta Cheese has a sweet, slightly creamy flavor. Ricotta's aroma can be described as "mild".

Appearance and Aging

Emmental Cheese's appearance is colored yellow , is available in round loaves and is aged 4 months to over 1 year . Ricotta Cheese has a color of white , comes in grainy soft mass and has an aging period of fresh .

Rind and Rennet Type

Ricotta Cheese's rind is described as none , with animal or microbial rennet.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Emmental Cheese Ricotta Cheese
Country of Origin Switzerland Italy
Specific Origin Emmental, Canton of Bern
Certification PDO (2004) None
Milk Type Raw Cow's Milk Cow's, Sheep's, Buffalo's
Milk Treatment Raw Whey
Fat Content Minimum of 45% (dry matter) Varies
Moisture Content High
Rind None
Texture Hard or medium-hard Soft, moist
Flavor Nutty, sweet Sweet, slightly creamy
Aroma Mild
Colors Yellow White
Forms Round loaves Grainy soft mass
Age 4 months to over 1 year Fresh
Rennet Type Animal or Microbial

Compare Emmental Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Ricotta Cheese to Other Cheeses