Halloumi Cheese vs Pepper Jack Cheese

In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Halloumi Cheese and Pepper Jack Cheese, including:

• "What is the difference between Halloumi Cheese and Pepper Jack Cheese?"
• "Is Halloumi Cheese and Pepper Jack Cheese the same?"
• "How does Halloumi Cheese compare to Pepper Jack Cheese cheese?"
• "How does the taste of Halloumi Cheese compare to Pepper Jack Cheese?"
• "Is Halloumi Cheese or Pepper 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.

Pepper Jack Cheese Overview

Pepper Jack cheese is a derivative of Monterey Jack that includes spicy chili peppers, bell peppers, and herbs. This American cheese is known for its mild, creamy texture contrasted with the lively heat of the peppers. It's popular in sandwiches, on burgers, and melted in dishes where a spicy kick is desired.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Halloumi Cheese comes from Cyprus. Pepper Jack Cheese originated from 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). Pepper Jack is not a protected cheese.

Milk Type and Treatment

Halloumi Cheese is made with cow, goat, and sheep milk. Pepper Jack Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized.

Composition and Texture

Halloumi's texture can be described as "semihard". Pepper Jack's texture can be described as "semi-soft".

Taste and Aroma

Halloumi Cheese has a mild, salty taste. Halloumi's aroma can be described as "strong".

Appearance and Aging

Halloumi Cheese's appearance is colored white to light yellow and is aged 40 days .

Rind and Rennet Type

Halloumi Cheese's rind is described as no rind and uses animal rennet.

Ranking

Halloumi is ranked #94 out of 996 types based on community views. Pepper Jack is ranked #124 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Halloumi and Pepper Jack pages.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a semihard cheese, go for Halloumi. But if you enjoy a semi-soft consistency, Pepper Jack might be the better pick.

Compare Halloumi Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Pepper Jack Cheese to Other Cheeses