Fontal Cheese vs Maasdam Cheese
Fontal Cheese
Maasdam Cheese
Fontal Cheese is a cow-milk cheese from Italy, while Maasdam Cheese is semi-hard and made from cow milk, originating in Netherlands.
What Is Fontal Cheese?
Fontal is one of the names that grew out of fontina, the cow's milk cheese first produced in Italy. Cheeses under derivative names like fontal are made in other parts of Italy and in Denmark, Sweden, Quebec, France, Argentina, and the United States.
What Is Maasdam Cheese?
Maasdam is a Dutch cheese made in the style of Swiss Emmental, aged at least four weeks and marked by holes that form as it ripens. It tastes nutty and sweet, and it is softer than Emmental because it holds more moisture.
What's the Difference Between Fontal Cheese and Maasdam Cheese?
- Origin: Fontal Cheese (Italy), Maasdam Cheese (Netherlands)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Fontal Cheese | Maasdam Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Italy | Netherlands |
| Specific Origin | Italy | The Netherlands |
| Milk Type | Cow | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | — | Pasteurized |
| Texture | — | Semi-hard |
| Rind | — | Smooth, sometimes waxed |
| Aging | — | At least 4 weeks |
| Taste | — | Nutty, sweet |
Taste Comparison: Does Fontal Cheese Taste Like Maasdam Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Fontal Cheese for Maasdam Cheese?
In most recipes, Fontal Cheese and Maasdam Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over.
Which Is Better, Fontal Cheese or Maasdam 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 Fontal Cheese the same as Maasdam Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Fontal Cheese originates in Italy, while Maasdam Cheese comes from Netherlands.
Is Fontal Cheese similar to Maasdam Cheese?
Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.
Can I substitute Fontal Cheese for Maasdam Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Fontal Cheese taste like Maasdam Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Fontal Cheese made of?
Fontal Cheese is made from cow milk. It originates in Italy.
What is Maasdam Cheese made of?
Maasdam Cheese is made from cow milk (pasteurized). It's typically aged at least 4 weeks. It originates in Netherlands.
Which should I choose, Fontal Cheese or Maasdam Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.