Jarlsberg Cheese vs Laruns Cheese
Jarlsberg Cheese is a semihard cow-milk cheese from Norway, while Laruns Cheese is soft, artisan and made from sheep milk, originating in France.
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 Laruns Cheese?
Laruns is a French cheese originating from the region of Laruns. Made from unpasteurized sheep's milk, it is known for its soft, artisan texture. The flavor profile is a balanced mix of acidic, mild, nutty, salty, and sweet notes, making it a versatile choice for various pairings. It has a mild aroma that complements its straw-colored appearance. The cheese is wrapped in a natural rind, adding to its rustic appeal. Laruns is a prime example of traditional sheep's milk cheese, offering a gentle yet flavorful tasting experience.
What's the Difference Between Jarlsberg Cheese and Laruns Cheese?
- Origin: Jarlsberg Cheese (Norway), Laruns Cheese (France)
- Milk type: Jarlsberg Cheese (cow's milk), Laruns Cheese (sheep's milk)
- Milk treatment: Jarlsberg Cheese (pasteurized), Laruns Cheese (unpasteurized)
- Texture: Jarlsberg Cheese (Semihard), Laruns Cheese (soft, artisan)
- Rind: Jarlsberg Cheese (Plastic-covered), Laruns Cheese (natural)
- Taste: Jarlsberg Cheese (Mild, sweet, nutty), Laruns Cheese (acidic, mild, nutty, salty, sweet)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Jarlsberg Cheese | Laruns Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Norway | France |
| Specific Origin | Jarlsberg, Vestfold, Norway | Laruns |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Sheep's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized | Unpasteurized |
| Texture | Semihard | Soft, artisan |
| Rind | Plastic-covered | Natural |
| Aging | Three months to twelve months | — |
| Taste | Mild, sweet, nutty | Acidic, mild, nutty, salty, sweet |
Taste Comparison: Does Jarlsberg Cheese Taste Like Laruns Cheese?
Jarlsberg Cheese reads as mild, sweet, nutty, while Laruns Cheese brings acidic, mild, nutty, salty, sweet character. On the nose, Jarlsberg Cheese offers mild, buttery, contrasted with Laruns Cheese's mild.
Can You Substitute Jarlsberg Cheese for Laruns Cheese?
Jarlsberg Cheese can stand in for Laruns Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe. Expect semihard bite and body where the recipe calls for soft, artisan. Flavor-wise, Jarlsberg Cheese reads as mild, sweet, nutty while Laruns Cheese brings acidic, mild, nutty, salty, sweet notes.
Which Is Better, Jarlsberg Cheese or Laruns 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, artisan profile, Laruns Cheese is the better fit. Flavor-wise, Jarlsberg Cheese suits recipes that want mild, sweet, nutty notes, while Laruns Cheese fits dishes calling for acidic, mild, nutty, salty, sweet.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Jarlsberg Cheese the same as Laruns Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Jarlsberg Cheese originates in Norway, while Laruns Cheese comes from France. Jarlsberg Cheese is made from cow milk; Laruns Cheese uses sheep.
Is Jarlsberg Cheese similar to Laruns Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Jarlsberg Cheese for Laruns Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in richness and milk character.
Does Jarlsberg Cheese taste like Laruns Cheese?
Jarlsberg Cheese reads as mild, sweet, nutty, while Laruns Cheese is acidic, mild, nutty, salty, sweet. Aromas also diverge. Jarlsberg Cheese leans mild, buttery, and Laruns Cheese is closer to mild.
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 Laruns Cheese made of?
Laruns Cheese is made from sheep milk (unpasteurized). It originates in France.
Which should I choose, Jarlsberg Cheese or Laruns Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Jarlsberg Cheese is semihard, while Laruns Cheese is soft, artisan.