Italian-Style Cheese vs Pérail Cheese
Italian-Style Cheese is a cheese, while Pérail Cheese is soft and made from sheep milk, originating in France.
What Is Italian-Style Cheese?
Italian-Style cheese is a broad category that typically mimics the flavors and textures of traditional Italian cheeses. These cheeses are often semi-hard and range in flavor from mild and creamy to sharp and tangy. They may be made from cow's, goat's, or sheep's milk, and are commonly used in cooking due to their melting properties. Italian-Style cheeses are versatile, making them suitable for grating over pasta, topping pizzas, or incorporating into baked dishes. While they may not be authentically Italian, they aim to capture the essence of Italy's renowned cheese-making traditions. The taste can vary but generally offers a savory and rich profile. Depending on the specific type, these cheeses might feature subtle hints of nuttiness or a buttery finish.
What Is Pérail Cheese?
Pérail is a soft sheep's milk cheese from Aveyron in southern France, sold in small rounds with an ivory, wrinkly rind. Older wheels taste distinctly sheepy.
What's the Difference Between Italian-Style Cheese and Pérail Cheese?
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Italian-Style Cheese | Pérail Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | — | France |
| Specific Origin | — | Aveyron, France |
| Milk Type | — | Sheep |
| Texture | — | Soft |
| Rind | — | Wrinkly, mainly Geotrichum candidum |
| Aging | — | 2 to 8 weeks |
| Taste | — | Distinctly sheepy in older cheeses |
Taste Comparison: Does Italian-Style Cheese Taste Like Pérail Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Italian-Style Cheese for Pérail Cheese?
Italian-Style Cheese can stand in for Pérail Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Italian-Style Cheese or Pérail Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want.
Which is your favorite?
One click, anonymous. See what others chose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Italian-Style Cheese the same as Pérail Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses.
Is Italian-Style Cheese similar to Pérail Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Italian-Style Cheese for Pérail Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Italian-Style Cheese taste like Pérail Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Italian-Style Cheese made of?
Italian-Style Cheese is made from milk.
What is Pérail Cheese made of?
Pérail Cheese is made from sheep milk. It's typically aged 2 to 8 weeks. It originates in France.
Which should I choose, Italian-Style Cheese or Pérail Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.