Five Counties Cheese vs Reblochon Cheese
Five Counties Cheese is a semi-firm cow-milk cheese from England, while Reblochon Cheese is ivory-colored, creamy and supple and made from cow milk, originating in France.
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 Reblochon Cheese?
Reblochon is a soft, washed-rind cheese made from raw cow's milk in the Haute-Savoie region of the French Alps. It tastes nutty, holds an AOC designation, and is the cheese that makes tartiflette work.
What's the Difference Between Five Counties Cheese and Reblochon Cheese?
- Origin: Five Counties Cheese (England), Reblochon Cheese (France)
- Texture: Five Counties Cheese (semi-firm), Reblochon Cheese (Ivory-colored, creamy and supple)
- Taste: Five Counties Cheese (buttery, mild, salty), Reblochon Cheese (creamy, nutty)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Five Counties Cheese | Reblochon Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | England | France |
| Specific Origin | Somerset | Haute-Savoie And Savoie |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Raw whole cow’s milk |
| Milk Treatment | — | Raw |
| Texture | Semi-firm | Ivory-colored, creamy and supple |
| Rind | — | Yellow-orange covered with a thin white mold |
| Aging | — | 3 to 4 months |
| Taste | Buttery, mild, salty | Creamy, nutty |
Taste Comparison: Does Five Counties Cheese Taste Like Reblochon Cheese?
Five Counties Cheese reads as buttery, mild, salty, while Reblochon Cheese brings creamy, nutty character.
Can You Substitute Five Counties Cheese for Reblochon Cheese?
In most recipes, Five Counties Cheese and Reblochon 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 ivory-colored, creamy and supple. Flavor-wise, Five Counties Cheese reads as buttery, mild, salty while Reblochon Cheese brings creamy, nutty notes.
Which Is Better, Five Counties Cheese or Reblochon 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 ivory-colored, creamy and supple profile, Reblochon Cheese is the better fit. Flavor-wise, Five Counties Cheese suits recipes that want buttery, mild, salty notes, while Reblochon Cheese fits dishes calling for creamy, nutty.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Five Counties Cheese the same as Reblochon Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Five Counties Cheese originates in England, while Reblochon Cheese comes from France.
Is Five Counties Cheese similar to Reblochon Cheese?
Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.
Can I substitute Five Counties Cheese for Reblochon Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in bite and mouthfeel.
Does Five Counties Cheese taste like Reblochon Cheese?
Five Counties Cheese reads as buttery, mild, salty, while Reblochon Cheese is creamy, nutty.
What is Five Counties Cheese made of?
Five Counties Cheese is made from cow milk. It originates in England.
What is Reblochon Cheese made of?
Reblochon Cheese is made from cow milk (raw), using natural rennet. It's typically aged 3 to 4 months. It originates in France.
Which should I choose, Five Counties Cheese or Reblochon Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Five Counties Cheese is semi-firm, while Reblochon Cheese is ivory-colored, creamy and supple.