Jarlsberg Cheese vs Kernhem Cheese
Jarlsberg Cheese is a semihard cow-milk cheese from Norway, while Kernhem Cheese is soft and made from cow milk, originating in Netherlands.
What Is Jarlsberg Cheese?
Jarlsberg is a mild Swiss-type cheese from Norway, made from cow's milk and named after Jarlsberg Manor. It is known for its buttery, slightly sweet and nutty flavor and its medium to large holes.
What Is Kernhem Cheese?
Kernhem is a soft cheese from the Netherlands, made from pasteurized cow's milk. It has a fat content of 60%, giving it a rich and creamy texture. The flavor profile is mild, with nutty and sweet notes that make it appealing to many palates. The cheese has a yellow hue and is known for its aromatic presence. It features a washed rind, which contributes to its distinctive aroma. Kernhem is versatile in use, suitable for both snacking and cooking.
What's the Difference Between Jarlsberg Cheese and Kernhem Cheese?
- Origin: Jarlsberg Cheese (Norway), Kernhem Cheese (Netherlands)
- Texture: Jarlsberg Cheese (Semihard), Kernhem Cheese (soft)
- Rind: Jarlsberg Cheese (Plastic-covered), Kernhem Cheese (washed)
- Taste: Jarlsberg Cheese (Mild, sweet, nutty), Kernhem Cheese (mild, nutty, sweet)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Jarlsberg Cheese | Kernhem Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Norway | Netherlands |
| Specific Origin | Jarlsberg, Vestfold, Norway | Kernhem |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized | Pasteurized |
| Texture | Semihard | Soft |
| Rind | Plastic-covered | Washed |
| Aging | Three months to twelve months | — |
| Taste | Mild, sweet, nutty | Mild, nutty, sweet |
Taste Comparison: Does Jarlsberg Cheese Taste Like Kernhem Cheese?
Jarlsberg Cheese reads as mild, sweet, nutty, while Kernhem Cheese brings mild, nutty, sweet character. On the nose, Jarlsberg Cheese offers mild, buttery, contrasted with Kernhem Cheese's aromatic.
Can You Substitute Jarlsberg Cheese for Kernhem Cheese?
In most recipes, Jarlsberg Cheese and Kernhem Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over. Expect semihard bite and body where the recipe calls for soft. Flavor-wise, Jarlsberg Cheese reads as mild, sweet, nutty while Kernhem Cheese brings mild, nutty, sweet notes.
Which Is Better, Jarlsberg Cheese or Kernhem Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a semihard cheese, go with Jarlsberg Cheese. For a soft profile, Kernhem Cheese is the better fit. Flavor-wise, Jarlsberg Cheese suits recipes that want mild, sweet, nutty notes, while Kernhem Cheese fits dishes calling for mild, nutty, sweet.
Which is your favorite?
One click, anonymous. See what others chose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Jarlsberg Cheese the same as Kernhem Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Jarlsberg Cheese originates in Norway, while Kernhem Cheese comes from Netherlands.
Is Jarlsberg Cheese similar to Kernhem Cheese?
Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.
Can I substitute Jarlsberg Cheese for Kernhem Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in bite and mouthfeel.
Does Jarlsberg Cheese taste like Kernhem Cheese?
Jarlsberg Cheese reads as mild, sweet, nutty, while Kernhem Cheese is mild, nutty, sweet. Aromas also diverge. Jarlsberg Cheese leans mild, buttery, and Kernhem Cheese is closer to aromatic.
What is Jarlsberg Cheese made of?
Jarlsberg Cheese is made from cow milk (pasteurized), using animal rennet. It's typically aged three months to twelve months. It originates in Norway.
What is Kernhem Cheese made of?
Kernhem Cheese is made from cow milk (pasteurized). It originates in Netherlands.
Which should I choose, Jarlsberg Cheese or Kernhem Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Jarlsberg Cheese is semihard, while Kernhem Cheese is soft.