Figue Cheese vs Salers Cheese
Figue Cheese is a soft, artisan goat-milk cheese from France, while Salers Cheese is firm and made from cow milk, originating in France.
What Is Figue Cheese?
Figue is a soft, artisan cheese made from unpasteurized goat's milk in the Provence region of France. It has a creamy white color and a natural rind. Known for its full-flavored and sour taste, Figue offers a rich experience for those who enjoy goat's milk cheeses. Its aromatic, milky scent enhances its appeal, making it a favorite among cheese enthusiasts. The cheese is often shaped like a small fig, which is reflected in its name. Enjoy it on a cheese board or paired with fresh bread and a glass of wine to appreciate its flavorful profile.
What Is Salers Cheese?
Salers is a semi-hard pressed cheese from the Cantal department in France's Massif Central, made only between 15 April and 15 November. Wheels weigh about 40 kg (88 lb) and age in caves for three to forty-five months. It has held AOC status since 1961.
What's the Difference Between Figue Cheese and Salers Cheese?
- Milk type: Figue Cheese (goat's milk), Salers Cheese (cow's milk)
- Texture: Figue Cheese (soft, artisan), Salers Cheese (Firm)
- Rind: Figue Cheese (natural), Salers Cheese (Thick gray)
- Taste: Figue Cheese (full-flavored, sour), Salers Cheese (Strong-tasting)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Figue Cheese | Salers Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | France | France |
| Specific Origin | Provence | Salers, Massif Central |
| Milk Type | Goat's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Unpasteurized | Unpasteurized |
| Texture | Soft, artisan | Firm |
| Rind | Natural | Thick gray |
| Aging | — | Minimum of three months, up to forty-five months |
| Taste | Full-flavored, sour | Strong-tasting |
Taste Comparison: Does Figue Cheese Taste Like Salers Cheese?
Figue Cheese reads as full-flavored, sour, while Salers Cheese brings strong-tasting character.
Can You Substitute Figue Cheese for Salers Cheese?
Figue Cheese can stand in for Salers Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe. Expect soft, artisan bite and body where the recipe calls for firm. Flavor-wise, Figue Cheese reads as full-flavored, sour while Salers Cheese brings strong-tasting notes.
Which Is Better, Figue Cheese or Salers Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a soft, artisan cheese, go with Figue Cheese. For a firm profile, Salers Cheese is the better fit. Flavor-wise, Figue Cheese suits recipes that want full-flavored, sour notes, while Salers Cheese fits dishes calling for strong-tasting.
Which is your favorite?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Figue Cheese the same as Salers Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Figue Cheese is made from goat milk; Salers Cheese uses cow.
Is Figue Cheese similar to Salers Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Figue Cheese for Salers Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in richness and milk character.
Does Figue Cheese taste like Salers Cheese?
Figue Cheese reads as full-flavored, sour, while Salers Cheese is strong-tasting.
What is Figue Cheese made of?
Figue Cheese is made from goat milk (unpasteurized). It originates in France.
What is Salers Cheese made of?
Salers Cheese is made from cow milk (unpasteurized). It's typically aged minimum of three months, up to forty-five months. It originates in France.
Which should I choose, Figue Cheese or Salers Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Figue Cheese is soft, artisan, while Salers Cheese is firm.