Fontina-Style Cheese vs Queijo do Pico
Fontina-Style Cheese is a cheese, while Queijo do Pico is soft and made from cow milk, originating in Portugal.
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 Queijo do Pico?
Queijo do Pico is a cured cow's milk cheese from the island of Pico in the Azores. It cures for 20 to 30 days into a flat cylinder with a yellow crust and a soft, pasty interior, and it has carried EU protected origin status since 1996.
What's the Difference Between Fontina-Style Cheese and Queijo do Pico?
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Fontina-Style Cheese | Queijo do Pico | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | — | Portugal |
| Specific Origin | — | Azores |
| Milk Type | — | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | — | Unpasteurized |
| Texture | — | Soft |
| Rind | — | Natural |
| Aging | — | 20 to 30 days |
| Taste | — | Creamy, salty |
Taste Comparison: Does Fontina-Style Cheese Taste Like Queijo do Pico?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Fontina-Style Cheese for Queijo do Pico?
Fontina-Style Cheese can stand in for Queijo do Pico in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Fontina-Style Cheese or Queijo do Pico?
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 Queijo do Pico?
No, they're distinct cheeses.
Is Fontina-Style Cheese similar to Queijo do Pico?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Fontina-Style Cheese for Queijo do Pico?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Fontina-Style Cheese taste like Queijo do Pico?
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 Queijo do Pico made of?
Queijo do Pico is made from cow milk (unpasteurized). It's typically aged 20 to 30 days. It originates in Portugal.
Which should I choose, Fontina-Style Cheese or Queijo do Pico?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.