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Havarti Cheese vs Pimento Cheese
In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Havarti Cheese and Pimento Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between Havarti Cheese and Pimento Cheese?"
- "Is Havarti Cheese and Pimento Cheese the same?"
- "How does Havarti Cheese compare to Pimento Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of Havarti Cheese compare to Pimento Cheese?"
- "Is Havarti Cheese or Pimento Cheese better?"
Havarti Cheese Overview
Havarti is a semi-soft Danish cheese known for its creamy texture and mild, slightly tangy flavor. It is typically made from cow's milk and is a table cheese that can be sliced, grilled, or melted. Havarti may also be flavored with spices, herbs, or other additives to enhance its taste.
Pimento Cheese Overview
Pimento cheese is a popular spread in the Southern United States, made from cheddar cheese, pimento peppers, and mayonnaise. Sometimes referred to as the "pâté of the South," it has a creamy, tangy flavor and is often used as a filling for sandwiches, a topping for crackers, or a dip for vegetables.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Country of Origin
Havarti Cheese comes from Denmark. Pimento 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. Havarti Cheese has a PGI (2010). Pimento is not a protected cheese.
Milk Type and Treatment
Havarti Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized. Pimento Cheese is made with unknown milk.
Composition and Texture
Havarti Cheese has a fat content of max 50% moisture, min 23% fat and a moisture content of 40–45% (typically). Havarti's texture can be described as "smooth". Pimento's texture can be described as "spreadable".
Taste and Aroma
Havarti Cheese has a mild, buttery taste. Havarti's aroma can be described as "pungent aroma, earthy taste". Pimento Cheese has a sweet, rounded chili taste. Pimento's aroma can be described as "sweet, rounded chili".
Appearance and Aging
Havarti Cheese's appearance is available in rectangular . Pimento Cheese comes in grated cheese mixed into a spread .
Rind and Rennet Type
Havarti Cheese's rind is described as washed rind .
Ranking
Havarti is ranked #9 out of 996 types based on community views. Pimento is ranked #117 out of 996 types based on community views.
Pairing Comparison
| Havarti | Pimento | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pairings | Kolsch, Pinot Gris, Riesling | No pairings listed. |
| Other Good Pairings | Apples, Asian Pear, Asparagus, Belgian Blonde, California Viogniers, Champagne, Crackers, Dirty Martini, Green Apple, Green Tea, Grilled Cheese, Hard Cider, IPA, Kombucha, Pistachios, Sauvignon Blanc, Shrimp, Sparkling Rosé, Viognier | No additional pairings listed. |
For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Havarti and Pimento pages.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Havarti Cheese | Pimento Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Denmark | United States |
| Specific Origin | No Specific Location | Southern United States |
| Certification | PGI (2010) | Not Specified |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cheddar, farmers’ style |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized | Not Specified |
| Fat Content | Max 50% moisture, min 23% fat | Not Specified |
| Moisture Content | 40–45% (Typically) | Not Specified |
| Rind | Washed rind | Not Specified |
| Texture | Smooth | Spreadable |
| Taste | Mild, buttery | Sweet, rounded chili |
| Aroma | Pungent aroma, earthy taste | Sweet, rounded chili |
| Forms | Rectangular | Grated cheese mixed into a spread |
Which One Should You Choose?
If you prefer a smooth cheese, go for Havarti. But if you enjoy a spreadable consistency, Pimento might be the better pick. Havarti has a mild, buttery taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Pimento offers a sweet, rounded chili profile, ideal for different meals.
