Maasdam Cheese vs Pecorino Romano Cheese

In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Maasdam Cheese and Pecorino Romano Cheese, including:

• "What is the difference between Maasdam Cheese and Pecorino Romano Cheese?"
• "Is Maasdam Cheese and Pecorino Romano Cheese the same?"
• "How does Maasdam Cheese compare to Pecorino Romano Cheese cheese?"
• "How does the taste of Maasdam Cheese compare to Pecorino Romano Cheese?"
• "Is Maasdam Cheese or Pecorino Romano Cheese better?"

Maasdam Cheese Overview

Maasdam cheese is the Dutch answer to Swiss cheeses, recognizable by its large holes and sweet, nutty flavor. It is made from cow's milk and has a semi-soft texture. Maasdam matures faster than other holey cheeses like Emmental, developing its distinctive flavor and appearance in just a few weeks.

Pecorino Romano Cheese Overview

Pecorino Romano is one of the most ancient types of cheese and a staple in Italian cuisine. Made from sheep's milk, it is salty and sharp, traditionally used grated over pasta dishes, incorporated into sauces, or eaten on its own with a drizzle of honey. Pecorino Romano is predominantly produced in the regions of Lazio, Sardinia, and Tuscany.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Maasdam Cheese comes from Netherlands. Pecorino Romano Cheese originated from Italy.

Certification

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

Milk Type and Treatment

Maasdam Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized. Pecorino Romano Cheese is made with sheep milk.

Composition and Texture

Maasdam's texture can be described as "semi-hard". Pecorino Romano Cheese has a fat content of ~36%. Pecorino Romano's texture can be described as "hard".

Taste and Aroma

Maasdam Cheese has a nutty, sweet taste. Pecorino Romano Cheese has a sharp, salty taste. Pecorino Romano's aroma can be described as "strong".

Appearance and Aging

Maasdam Cheese's appearance is colored pale yellow . Pecorino Romano Cheese has a color of white interior, pale yellow to brown/black rind , comes in wheels, 49–71 lbs, 12–13" high, 11–12" wide and has an aging period of 5–8 months or longer .

Rind and Rennet Type

Pecorino Romano Cheese's rind is described as pale yellow to brown or black , with rennet rennet.

Ranking

Maasdam is ranked #36 out of 996 types based on community views. Pecorino Romano is ranked #63 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Maasdam and Pecorino Romano pages.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a semi-hard cheese, go for Maasdam. But if you enjoy a hard consistency, Pecorino Romano might be the better pick. Maasdam has a nutty, sweet taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Pecorino Romano offers a sharp, salty profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Maasdam Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Pecorino Romano Cheese to Other Cheeses