Jarlsberg Cheese vs Provel Cheese
Jarlsberg Cheese is a semihard cow-milk cheese from Norway, while Provel Cheese is soft, processed and made from cow milk, originating in United States.
What Is Jarlsberg Cheese?
Jarlsberg is a famous Norwegian cheese, known for its distinctive sweet and nutty taste. It is a semi-soft cheese with large, round holes. Jarlsberg is versatile and can be sliced, grilled, or melted. It is often used in sandwiches, as a burger topping, or simply enjoyed on its own.
What Is Provel Cheese?
Provel is a processed cheese originating from St. Louis, Missouri, in the United States. Made from pasteurized cow's milk, it is characterized by its soft texture, which makes it easy to melt. The cheese has a buttery flavor, accompanied by a smokey aroma, making it a popular choice for topping pizzas and other dishes in its region of origin. Provel is white in color and typically comes with a plastic rind. Its unique combination of flavors and melting properties has made it a staple in St. Louis-style pizza.
What's the Difference Between Jarlsberg Cheese and Provel Cheese?
- Origin: Jarlsberg Cheese (Norway), Provel Cheese (United States)
- Texture: Jarlsberg Cheese (Semihard), Provel Cheese (soft, processed)
- Rind: Jarlsberg Cheese (Plastic-covered), Provel Cheese (plastic)
- Taste: Jarlsberg Cheese (Mild, sweet, nutty), Provel Cheese (buttery)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Jarlsberg Cheese | Provel Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Norway | United States |
| Specific Origin | No Specific Location | St. Louis, Missouri |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized | Pasteurized |
| Texture | Semihard | Soft, processed |
| Rind | Plastic-covered | Plastic |
| Aging | Three months to twelve months | — |
| Taste | Mild, sweet, nutty | Buttery |
Taste Comparison: Does Jarlsberg Cheese Taste Like Provel Cheese?
Jarlsberg Cheese reads as mild, sweet, nutty, while Provel Cheese brings buttery character.
Can You Substitute Jarlsberg Cheese for Provel Cheese?
In most recipes, Jarlsberg Cheese and Provel 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, processed. Flavor-wise, Jarlsberg Cheese reads as mild, sweet, nutty while Provel Cheese brings buttery notes.
Which Is Better, Jarlsberg Cheese or Provel 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, processed profile, Provel Cheese is the better fit. Flavor-wise, Jarlsberg Cheese suits recipes that want mild, sweet, nutty notes, while Provel Cheese fits dishes calling for buttery.
Which is your favorite?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Jarlsberg Cheese the same as Provel Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Jarlsberg Cheese originates in Norway, while Provel Cheese comes from United States.
Is Jarlsberg Cheese similar to Provel Cheese?
Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.
Can I substitute Jarlsberg Cheese for Provel Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in bite and mouthfeel.
Does Jarlsberg Cheese taste like Provel Cheese?
Jarlsberg Cheese reads as mild, sweet, nutty, while Provel Cheese is buttery.
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 Provel Cheese made of?
Provel Cheese is made from cow milk (pasteurized). It originates in United States.
Which should I choose, Jarlsberg Cheese or Provel Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Jarlsberg Cheese is semihard, while Provel Cheese is soft, processed.