Montasio-Style Cheese vs Naboulsi Cheese
Montasio-Style Cheese is a cheese, while Naboulsi Cheese is semi-hard, brined and made from goat or sheep milk, originating in Middle East and Palestine.
What Is Montasio-Style Cheese?
Montasio-Style cheese is a semi-hard cheese originally from the Friuli Venezia Giulia and Veneto regions of Italy. It is made from cow's milk and has a smooth, pale yellow rind. The cheese typically ages for several months, developing a firm texture and a mild, nutty flavor. Younger Montasio-Style cheese is creamy and slightly tangy, while aged versions become crumbly with a more pronounced sharpness. It is often used in cooking, grated over pasta dishes or melted in traditional recipes. Montasio-Style cheese pairs well with fruity white wines and is enjoyed as part of a cheese platter.
What Is Naboulsi Cheese?
Nabulsi is a Palestinian white brined cheese named for Nablus, made mostly from sheep's milk and flavored with mahleb and mastic in the brine. It comes in white rectangular blocks that turn soft and stretchy when heated, which is why it fills knafeh.
What's the Difference Between Montasio-Style Cheese and Naboulsi Cheese?
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Montasio-Style Cheese | Naboulsi Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | — | Middle East And Palestine |
| Specific Origin | — | Nablus, Palestine |
| Milk Type | — | Goat's or sheep's milk |
| Milk Treatment | — | Pasteurized |
| Texture | — | Semi-hard, brined |
| Rind | — | Natural |
| Taste | — | Salty |
Taste Comparison: Does Montasio-Style Cheese Taste Like Naboulsi Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Montasio-Style Cheese for Naboulsi Cheese?
Montasio-Style Cheese can stand in for Naboulsi Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Montasio-Style Cheese or Naboulsi Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want.
Which is your favorite?
One click, anonymous. See what others chose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Montasio-Style Cheese the same as Naboulsi Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses.
Is Montasio-Style Cheese similar to Naboulsi Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Montasio-Style Cheese for Naboulsi Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Montasio-Style Cheese taste like Naboulsi Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Montasio-Style Cheese made of?
Montasio-Style Cheese is made from milk.
What is Naboulsi Cheese made of?
Naboulsi Cheese is made from goat or sheep milk (pasteurized). It originates in Middle East and Palestine.
Which should I choose, Montasio-Style Cheese or Naboulsi Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.