Fontina-Style Cheese vs Provolone Cheese
Fontina-Style Cheese
Provolone Cheese
Fontina-Style Cheese is a cheese, while Provolone Cheese is semi-hard, artisan and made from cow milk, originating in Italy.
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 Provolone Cheese?
Provolone is an Italian semi-hard cheese made from cow's milk with a stretched curd. It runs from the very sharp piccante, aged at least four months, to the mild dolce.
What's the Difference Between Fontina-Style Cheese and Provolone Cheese?
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Fontina-Style Cheese | Provolone Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | — | Italy |
| Specific Origin | — | Campania, Italy |
| Milk Type | — | Cow's milk |
| Texture | — | Semi-hard, artisan |
| Aging | — | At least 4 months for piccante |
| Taste | — | Tangy |
Taste Comparison: Does Fontina-Style Cheese Taste Like Provolone Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Fontina-Style Cheese for Provolone Cheese?
Fontina-Style Cheese can stand in for Provolone Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Fontina-Style Cheese or Provolone 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 Provolone Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses.
Is Fontina-Style Cheese similar to Provolone Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Fontina-Style Cheese for Provolone Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Fontina-Style Cheese taste like Provolone 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 Provolone Cheese made of?
Provolone Cheese is made from cow milk. It's typically aged at least 4 months for piccante. It originates in Italy.
Which should I choose, Fontina-Style Cheese or Provolone Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.