Iberico Cheese vs Kasseri Cheese
In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Iberico Cheese and Kasseri Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between Iberico Cheese and Kasseri Cheese?"
- "Is Iberico Cheese and Kasseri Cheese the same?"
- "How does Iberico Cheese compare to Kasseri Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of Iberico Cheese compare to Kasseri Cheese?"
- "Is Iberico Cheese or Kasseri Cheese better?"
Iberico Cheese Overview
Queso Iberico is a hard cheese from Spain made using a blend of cow's, goat's, and sheep's milk. It can be crafted from either pasteurized or unpasteurized milk, contributing to its rich and aromatic profile. This cheese has a buttery and nutty flavor with a strong taste that captures the essence of its mixed milk origins. The cheese is typically white in color and features a natural rind. Known also as Iberico Cheese, it offers a satisfying density and a complex taste that pairs well with a variety of foods. Its rich aroma and firm texture make it a popular choice for cheese lovers seeking a traditional Spanish flavor.
Kasseri Cheese Overview
Kasseri is a semi-hard cheese made predominantly from sheep's milk, with up to 20% goat's milk allowed. Originating in Greece, it is smooth and pale yellow, known for its elastic texture and mild, buttery flavor with a slight tang. Kasseri is often used in pies, pastries, and as a table cheese, especially in Greek and Turkish cuisines.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Country of Origin
Iberico Cheese comes from Spain. Kasseri Cheese originated from Greece.
Certification
Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. Iberico is not a protected cheese. Kasseri Cheese has a PDO (1996).
Milk Type and Treatment
Iberico Cheese is made with cow, goat, and sheep milk that is typically pasteurized or unpasteurized. Kasseri Cheese is made with goat and sheep milk that is typically raw or pasteurized.
Composition and Texture
Iberico's texture can be described as "hard". Kasseri's texture can be described as "firm to hard".
Taste and Aroma
Iberico Cheese has a buttery, nutty, strong taste. Iberico's aroma can be described as "aromatic, rich". Kasseri Cheese has a rich taste. Kasseri's aroma can be described as "flowery".
Appearance and Aging
Iberico Cheese's appearance is colored white . Kasseri Cheese has a color of pale yellow , comes in wheels and has an aging period of at least 2 months, peak at 10+ months .
Rind and Rennet Type
Iberico Cheese's rind is described as natural . Kasseri Cheese's rind is described as develops as ages , with natural rennet.
Ranking
Iberico is ranked #89 out of 996 types based on community views. Kasseri is ranked #112 out of 996 types based on community views.
Pairing Comparison
Iberico | Kasseri | |
---|---|---|
Best Pairings | Vinho Verde | No pairings listed. |
Other Good Pairings | No additional pairings listed. | No additional pairings listed. |
For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Iberico and Kasseri pages.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
Iberico Cheese | Kasseri Cheese | |
---|---|---|
Country of Origin | Spain | Greece |
Specific Origin | Not Specified | Thrace, Macedonia, Thessaly, Lesbos |
Certification | Not Specified | PDO (1996) |
Milk Type | Cow's, goat's and sheep's milk | Goat's and sheep's milk |
Milk Treatment | Pasteurized or unpasteurized | Traditionally raw, increasingly pasteurized |
Rind | Natural | Develops as ages |
Texture | Hard | Firm to hard |
Taste | Buttery, nutty, strong | Rich |
Aroma | Aromatic, rich | Flowery |
Colors | White | Pale yellow |
Forms | Not Specified | Wheels |
Age | Not Specified | At least 2 months, peak at 10+ months |
Rennet Type | Not Specified | Natural rennet |
Which One Should You Choose?
If you prefer a hard cheese, go for Iberico. But if you enjoy a firm to hard consistency, Kasseri might be the better pick. Iberico has a buttery, nutty, strong taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Kasseri offers a rich profile, ideal for different meals.