Five Counties Cheese vs Jarlsberg Cheese
Five Counties Cheese is a semi-firm cow-milk cheese from England, while Jarlsberg Cheese is semihard and made from cow milk, originating in Norway.
What Is Five Counties Cheese?
Five Counties cheese, originating from Somerset, England, is a semi-firm cheese made from cow's milk. It is known for its layered appearance, featuring five different types of English cheeses stacked together. The flavor is buttery and mild, with a touch of saltiness, making it a pleasant choice for those who enjoy a balanced taste. Its aroma is subtle, adding to its approachable nature. This cheese is also referred to as Five Territories, Five Shires, or Saxonshire. It is often enjoyed on cheese boards or paired with crackers and fruits for a simple yet satisfying snack.
What Is Jarlsberg Cheese?
Jarlsberg is a mild Swiss-type cheese from Norway, made from cow's milk and named after Jarlsberg Manor. It is known for its buttery, slightly sweet and nutty flavor and its medium to large holes.
What's the Difference Between Five Counties Cheese and Jarlsberg Cheese?
- Origin: Five Counties Cheese (England), Jarlsberg Cheese (Norway)
- Texture: Five Counties Cheese (semi-firm), Jarlsberg Cheese (Semihard)
- Taste: Five Counties Cheese (buttery, mild, salty), Jarlsberg Cheese (Mild, sweet, nutty)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Five Counties Cheese | Jarlsberg Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | England | Norway |
| Specific Origin | Somerset | Jarlsberg, Vestfold, Norway |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | — | Pasteurized |
| Texture | Semi-firm | Semihard |
| Rind | — | Plastic-covered |
| Aging | — | Three months to twelve months |
| Taste | Buttery, mild, salty | Mild, sweet, nutty |
Taste Comparison: Does Five Counties Cheese Taste Like Jarlsberg Cheese?
Five Counties Cheese reads as buttery, mild, salty, while Jarlsberg Cheese brings mild, sweet, nutty character. On the nose, Five Counties Cheese offers mild, contrasted with Jarlsberg Cheese's mild, buttery.
Can You Substitute Five Counties Cheese for Jarlsberg Cheese?
In most recipes, Five Counties Cheese and Jarlsberg Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over. Expect semi-firm bite and body where the recipe calls for semihard. Flavor-wise, Five Counties Cheese reads as buttery, mild, salty while Jarlsberg Cheese brings mild, sweet, nutty notes.
Which Is Better, Five Counties Cheese or Jarlsberg Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a semi-firm cheese, go with Five Counties Cheese. For a semihard profile, Jarlsberg Cheese is the better fit. Flavor-wise, Five Counties Cheese suits recipes that want buttery, mild, salty notes, while Jarlsberg Cheese fits dishes calling for mild, sweet, nutty.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Five Counties Cheese the same as Jarlsberg Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Five Counties Cheese originates in England, while Jarlsberg Cheese comes from Norway.
Is Five Counties Cheese similar to Jarlsberg Cheese?
Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.
Can I substitute Five Counties Cheese for Jarlsberg Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in bite and mouthfeel.
Does Five Counties Cheese taste like Jarlsberg Cheese?
Five Counties Cheese reads as buttery, mild, salty, while Jarlsberg Cheese is mild, sweet, nutty. Aromas also diverge. Five Counties Cheese leans mild, and Jarlsberg Cheese is closer to mild, buttery.
What is Five Counties Cheese made of?
Five Counties Cheese is made from cow milk. It originates in England.
What is Jarlsberg Cheese made of?
Jarlsberg Cheese is made from cow milk (pasteurized), using animal rennet. It's typically aged three months to twelve months. It originates in Norway.
Which should I choose, Five Counties Cheese or Jarlsberg Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Five Counties Cheese is semi-firm, while Jarlsberg Cheese is semihard.