Exmoor Blue Cheese vs Oka Cheese

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Exmoor Blue Cheese is a soft cow-milk cheese, while Oka Cheese is a cow-milk cheese, originating in Canada.

What Is Exmoor Blue Cheese?

Exmoor Blue Cheese is a full-fat soft blue-veined cheese made from unpasteurized Jersey cow’s milk in Devon and Somerset, England. It has a rich yellow color and a buttery texture, with an average fat content of 34%. The cheese has been handmade on Willet Farm since 1986, using traditional methods. It undergoes a maturation period of 3 to 6 weeks, during which it is regularly turned and treated with Penicillium roqueforti and Penicillium candidum to develop its distinctive blue veining. The lush pasture of the region, influenced by the warm, wet climate and red sandstone soil, contributes to the rich flavor of the milk used in production.

What Is Oka Cheese?

Oka is a semi-soft, washed-rind cheese from Oka, Quebec, Canada, originally crafted by Trappist monks in 1893. Known for its creamy, fruity, and nutty flavors, Oka cheese has a distinct copper-orange rind and a pungent aroma. Available in various types, it pairs well with nuts, fruits, and wines like Chianti and Pinot Noir. Oka remains a symbol of Quebec’s rich cheese-making heritage, continuing to be produced using traditional methods.

What's the Difference Between Exmoor Blue Cheese and Oka Cheese?

Side-by-Side Comparison

Exmoor Blue Cheese Oka Cheese
Country of Origin Canada
Specific Origin Devon And Somerset, England The Laurentides, Oka
Milk Type Cow Cow
Milk Treatment Unpasteurized
Texture Soft
Rind Treated with Penicillium candidum
Aging 3 to 6 weeks

Taste Comparison: Does Exmoor Blue Cheese Taste Like Oka Cheese?

Their flavor profiles are distinct.

Can You Substitute Exmoor Blue Cheese for Oka Cheese?

In most recipes, Exmoor Blue Cheese and Oka Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over.

Which Is Better, Exmoor Blue Cheese or Oka Cheese?

There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want.

Which is your favorite?

One click, anonymous. See what others chose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Exmoor Blue Cheese the same as Oka Cheese?

No, they're distinct cheeses.

Is Exmoor Blue Cheese similar to Oka Cheese?

Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.

Can I substitute Exmoor Blue Cheese for Oka Cheese?

You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.

Does Exmoor Blue Cheese taste like Oka Cheese?

They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.

What is Exmoor Blue Cheese made of?

Exmoor Blue Cheese is made from cow milk (unpasteurized), using vegetarian rennet. It's typically aged 3 to 6 weeks.

What is Oka Cheese made of?

Oka Cheese is made from cow milk. It originates in Canada.

Which should I choose, Exmoor Blue Cheese or Oka Cheese?

It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.