Mascarpone Cheese vs Pecorino Romano Cheese

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

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

Mascarpone Cheese Overview

Mascarpone is a creamy, soft Italian cheese made from cream, coagulated by the addition of citric acid or acetic acid. It has a very rich, buttery texture and a slightly sweet taste. Mascarpone is a key ingredient in desserts like tiramisu and can also be used in dips, spreads, and sauces.

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

Ranking

Mascarpone is ranked #45 out of 866 types based on community views.

Pecorino Romano is ranked #83 out of 866 types based on community views.

Country of Origin

Mascarpone Cheese comes from Italy. 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. Mascarpone is not a protected cheese. Pecorino Romano Cheese has a DOP (1996).

Milk Type and Treatment

Mascarpone Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically heated. Pecorino Romano Cheese is made with sheep milk.

Composition and Texture

Mascarpone Cheese has a fat content of 60 to 75 percent. Mascarpone's texture can be described as "soft, spreadable". Pecorino Romano Cheese has a fat content of ~36%. Pecorino Romano's texture can be described as "hard".

Flavor and Aroma

Mascarpone Cheese has a buttery to slightly tangy flavor. Mascarpone's aroma can be described as "fresh". Pecorino Romano Cheese has a sharp, salty flavor. Pecorino Romano's aroma can be described as "strong".

Appearance and Aging

Mascarpone Cheese's appearance is colored white . 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

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

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Compare Mascarpone Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Pecorino Romano Cheese to Other Cheeses