Kasseri Cheese vs Monterey Jack Cheese

In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Kasseri Cheese and Monterey Jack Cheese, including:

• "What is the difference between Kasseri Cheese and Monterey Jack Cheese?"
• "Is Kasseri Cheese and Monterey Jack Cheese the same?"
• "How does Kasseri Cheese compare to Monterey Jack Cheese cheese?"
• "How does the taste of Kasseri Cheese compare to Monterey Jack Cheese?"
• "Is Kasseri Cheese or Monterey Jack Cheese better?"

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.

Monterey Jack Cheese Overview

Monterey Jack is a popular American cheese originating from Monterey, California. It's known for its mild flavor and semi-soft texture, making it an excellent melting cheese. Monterey Jack can be enjoyed on its own or used in a variety of dishes, particularly Mexican and American cuisines, such as quesadillas and burgers.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Kasseri Cheese comes from Greece. Monterey Jack Cheese originated from Mexico and United States.

Certification

Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. Kasseri Cheese has a PDO (1996). Monterey Jack is not a protected cheese.

Milk Type and Treatment

Kasseri Cheese is made with goat and sheep milk that is typically raw or pasteurized. Monterey Jack Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized.

Composition and Texture

Kasseri's texture can be described as "firm to hard". Monterey Jack Cheese has a fat content of not less than 50% on a dry basis and a moisture content of none. Monterey Jack's texture can be described as "mild to firm".

Taste and Aroma

Kasseri Cheese has a rich taste. Kasseri's aroma can be described as "flowery". Monterey Jack Cheese has a mild to full-flavored taste. Monterey Jack's aroma can be described as "aromatic".

Appearance and Aging

Kasseri Cheese's appearance is colored pale yellow , is available in wheels and is aged at least 2 months, peak at 10+ months . Monterey Jack Cheese has a color of cream to golden and has an aging period of six weeks to ten months .

Rind and Rennet Type

Kasseri Cheese's rind is described as develops as ages and uses natural rennet. Monterey Jack Cheese uses animal rennet.

Ranking

Kasseri is ranked #119 out of 996 types based on community views. Monterey Jack is ranked #22 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Kasseri and Monterey Jack pages.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a firm to hard cheese, go for Kasseri. But if you enjoy a mild to firm consistency, Monterey Jack might be the better pick. Kasseri has a rich taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Monterey Jack offers a mild to full-flavored profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Kasseri Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Monterey Jack Cheese to Other Cheeses