Maroilles Cheese vs Mascares Cheese
Maroilles Cheese is a semisoft cow-milk cheese from France, while Mascares Cheese is fresh soft, artisan and made from goat and sheep milk, originating in France.
What Is Maroilles Cheese?
Maroilles is a cow's milk cheese from northern France, sold in rectangular blocks with a moist orange-red washed rind. It is known for its strong smell and takes its name from the village of Maroilles, where it has been made since the 10th century.
What Is Mascares Cheese?
Mascares is a fresh, soft cheese made from a blend of goat's and sheep's milk in the Provencale region of France. It has a creamy white interior and is traditionally wrapped in leaves, which adds a touch of rustic appeal. The cheese offers an earthy aroma with floral notes, suggesting a connection to the natural surroundings where it is produced. Its texture is smooth and spreadable, making it ideal for pairing with crusty bread or crackers. The flavor is mild yet tangy, with a subtle hint of sweetness. Mascares is best enjoyed fresh to appreciate its delicate balance of flavors and aromas.
What's the Difference Between Maroilles Cheese and Mascares Cheese?
- Milk type: Maroilles Cheese (cow's milk), Mascares Cheese (goat's and sheep's milk)
- Texture: Maroilles Cheese (Semisoft), Mascares Cheese (fresh soft, artisan)
- Rind: Maroilles Cheese (Reddish-orange color), Mascares Cheese (leaf wrapped)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Maroilles Cheese | Mascares Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | France | France |
| Specific Origin | Nord And Aisne | Provencale |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Goat's and sheep's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized and unpasteurized | — |
| Texture | Semisoft | Fresh soft, artisan |
| Rind | Reddish-orange color | Leaf wrapped |
| Aging | 5 weeks for 25-oz size | — |
| Taste | Creamy taste, powerful aroma | — |
Taste Comparison: Does Maroilles Cheese Taste Like Mascares Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct. On the nose, Maroilles Cheese offers cellars, wet brick, undergrowth, contrasted with Mascares Cheese's earthy, floral.
Can You Substitute Maroilles Cheese for Mascares Cheese?
Maroilles Cheese can stand in for Mascares Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe. Expect semisoft bite and body where the recipe calls for fresh soft, artisan.
Which Is Better, Maroilles Cheese or Mascares Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a semisoft cheese, go with Maroilles Cheese. For a fresh soft, artisan profile, Mascares Cheese is the better fit.
Which is your favorite?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Maroilles Cheese the same as Mascares Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Maroilles Cheese is made from cow milk; Mascares Cheese uses goat and sheep.
Is Maroilles Cheese similar to Mascares Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Maroilles Cheese for Mascares Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in richness and milk character.
Does Maroilles Cheese taste like Mascares Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Maroilles Cheese made of?
Maroilles Cheese is made from cow milk (pasteurized and unpasteurized), using calf rennet. It's typically aged 5 weeks for 25-oz size. It originates in France.
What is Mascares Cheese made of?
Mascares Cheese is made from goat and sheep milk. It originates in France.
Which should I choose, Maroilles Cheese or Mascares Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Maroilles Cheese is semisoft, while Mascares Cheese is fresh soft, artisan.