Halloumi Cheese vs Ricotta Salata Cheese

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

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

Ricotta Salata Cheese Overview

Ricotta Salata is a pressed, salted, dried, and aged version of ricotta, which turns it into a firm, crumbly cheese with a mild, milky flavor and a slightly salty bite. It's frequently grated over pasta, salads, or used in cooked dishes where a gentle cheese flavor is desired.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Halloumi Cheese comes from Cyprus. Ricotta Salata Cheese originated from Italy.

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). Ricotta Salata is not a protected cheese.

Milk Type and Treatment

Halloumi Cheese is made with cow, goat, and sheep milk. Ricotta Salata Cheese is made with sheep milk.

Composition and Texture

Halloumi's texture can be described as "semihard". Ricotta Salata's texture can be described as "semi-hard, whey".

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 #95 out of 996 types based on community views. Ricotta Salata is ranked #69 out of 996 types based on community views.

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-hard, whey consistency, Ricotta Salata might be the better pick.

Compare Halloumi Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Ricotta Salata Cheese to Other Cheeses