Halloumi Cheese vs Monterey Jack Cheese
Halloumi Cheese
Monterey Jack Cheese
In this article, we’ll explore the answers to the most common questions about Halloumi Cheese and Monterey Jack Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between Halloumi Cheese and Monterey Jack Cheese?"
- "Is Halloumi Cheese and Monterey Jack Cheese the same?"
- "How does Halloumi Cheese compare to Monterey Jack Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of Halloumi Cheese compare to Monterey Jack Cheese?"
- "Is Halloumi Cheese or Monterey Jack Cheese better?"
Halloumi Cheese Overview
Halloumi is a semi-hard, unripened brined cheese from Cyprus, made from a mixture of goat’s and sheep’s milk, and sometimes also cow’s milk. Renowned for its high melting point, Halloumi can be grilled or fried to a crispy exterior with a soft, chewy interior. It has a salty flavor and is often enjoyed with a squeeze of lemon.
Monterey Jack Cheese Overview
Monterey Jack is a popular American cheese originating from Monterey, California. It's known for its mild flavor and semi-soft texture, making it an excellent melting cheese. Monterey Jack can be enjoyed on its own or used in a variety of dishes, particularly Mexican and American cuisines, such as quesadillas and burgers.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Ranking
Halloumi is ranked #129 out of 866 types based on community views.
Monterey Jack is ranked #25 out of 866 types based on community views.
Country of Origin
Halloumi Cheese comes from Cyprus. Monterey Jack Cheese originated from Mexico and United States.
Certification
Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. Halloumi Cheese has a PDO (2014). Monterey Jack is not a protected cheese.
Milk Type and Treatment
Halloumi Cheese is made with cow, goat, and sheep milk. Monterey Jack Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized.
Composition and Texture
Halloumi's texture can be described as "semihard". Monterey Jack Cheese has a fat content of not less than 50% on a dry basis and a moisture content of none. Monterey Jack's texture can be described as "mild to firm".
Flavor and Aroma
Halloumi Cheese has a mild, salty flavor. Halloumi's aroma can be described as "strong". Monterey Jack Cheese has a mild to full-flavored flavor. Monterey Jack's aroma can be described as "aromatic".
Appearance and Aging
Halloumi Cheese's appearance is colored white to light yellow and is aged 40 days . Monterey Jack Cheese has a color of cream to golden and has an aging period of six weeks to ten months .
Rind and Rennet Type
Halloumi Cheese's rind is described as no rind and uses animal rennet. Monterey Jack Cheese uses animal rennet.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
Halloumi Cheese | Monterey Jack Cheese | |
---|---|---|
Country of Origin | Cyprus | Mexico and United States |
Specific Origin | Cyprus | Monterey County, California |
Certification | PDO (2014) | None |
Milk Type | cow's, goat's and sheep's milk | cow's milk |
Milk Treatment | pasteurized | |
Fat Content | Not less than 50% on a dry basis | |
Moisture Content | Not more than 44% | |
Rind | No rind | |
Texture | Semihard | Mild to firm |
Flavor | Mild, salty | Mild to full-flavored |
Aroma | strong | aromatic |
Colors | White to light yellow | Cream to golden |
Age | 40 days | Six weeks to ten months |
Rennet Type | Animal | Animal |