Fontina-Style Cheese vs Naboulsi Cheese
Fontina-Style Cheese is a cheese, while Naboulsi Cheese is semi-hard, brined and made from goat or sheep milk, originating in Middle East and Palestine.
What Is Fontina-Style Cheese?
Fontina-Style cheese is a semi-soft cheese known for its creamy texture and mild, nutty flavor. It draws inspiration from traditional Italian Fontina but is often made in various regions outside Italy. The cheese has a pale yellow interior with a few small holes and a natural rind. It melts well, making it a popular choice for cooking, particularly in sauces and fondues. The flavor is buttery and slightly earthy, which pairs well with a variety of foods. Fontina-Style cheese can be sliced for sandwiches or served as part of a cheese platter. It is also a good companion to fruits and nuts, enhancing its mild sweetness.
What Is Naboulsi Cheese?
Nabulsi is a Palestinian white brined cheese named for Nablus, made mostly from sheep's milk and flavored with mahleb and mastic in the brine. It comes in white rectangular blocks that turn soft and stretchy when heated, which is why it fills knafeh.
What's the Difference Between Fontina-Style Cheese and Naboulsi Cheese?
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Fontina-Style Cheese | Naboulsi Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | — | Middle East And Palestine |
| Specific Origin | — | Nablus, Palestine |
| Milk Type | — | Goat's or sheep's milk |
| Milk Treatment | — | Pasteurized |
| Texture | — | Semi-hard, brined |
| Rind | — | Natural |
| Taste | — | Salty |
Taste Comparison: Does Fontina-Style Cheese Taste Like Naboulsi Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Fontina-Style Cheese for Naboulsi Cheese?
Fontina-Style Cheese can stand in for Naboulsi Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Fontina-Style Cheese or Naboulsi 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 Fontina-Style Cheese the same as Naboulsi Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses.
Is Fontina-Style Cheese similar to Naboulsi Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Fontina-Style Cheese for Naboulsi Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Fontina-Style Cheese taste like Naboulsi Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Fontina-Style Cheese made of?
Fontina-Style Cheese is made from milk.
What is Naboulsi Cheese made of?
Naboulsi Cheese is made from goat or sheep milk (pasteurized). It originates in Middle East and Palestine.
Which should I choose, Fontina-Style Cheese or Naboulsi Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.