Fontal Cheese vs Munster Cheese
Fontal Cheese
Munster Cheese
Fontal Cheese is a cow-milk cheese from Italy, while Munster Cheese is semisoft and made from cow milk, originating in France.
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 Munster Cheese?
Munster, also called Munster-géromé, is a soft cheese made from raw cow's milk in the Vosges of eastern France. Brine washing during aging leaves it with a moist orange rind, a penetrating smell and a very strong taste.
What's the Difference Between Fontal Cheese and Munster Cheese?
- Origin: Fontal Cheese (Italy), Munster Cheese (France)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Fontal Cheese | Munster Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Italy | France |
| Specific Origin | Italy | Alsace, Lorraine, Franche-Comté |
| Milk Type | Cow | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | — | Unpasteurized |
| Texture | — | Semisoft |
| Rind | — | Washed, saltwater solution |
| Aging | — | 4-6 weeks to 2-3 months |
| Taste | — | Strong, gamey |
Taste Comparison: Does Fontal Cheese Taste Like Munster Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Fontal Cheese for Munster Cheese?
In most recipes, Fontal Cheese and Munster Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over.
Which Is Better, Fontal Cheese or Munster 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 Munster Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Fontal Cheese originates in Italy, while Munster Cheese comes from France.
Is Fontal Cheese similar to Munster Cheese?
Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.
Can I substitute Fontal Cheese for Munster Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Fontal Cheese taste like Munster 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 Munster Cheese made of?
Munster Cheese is made from cow milk (unpasteurized), using traditional rennet. It's typically aged 4-6 weeks to 2-3 months. It originates in France.
Which should I choose, Fontal Cheese or Munster Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.