Monterey Jack Cheese vs Pecorino Romano Cheese

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

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

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.

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

Monterey Jack Cheese comes from Mexico and United States. 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. Monterey Jack is not a protected cheese. Pecorino Romano Cheese has a PDO (1996), DOP (1996).

Milk Type and Treatment

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

Composition and Texture

Monterey Jack Cheese has a fat content of not less than 50% on a dry basis and a moisture content of not more than 44%. Monterey Jack's texture can be described as "mild to firm". Pecorino Romano Cheese has a fat content of ~36%. Pecorino Romano's texture can be described as "hard".

Taste and Aroma

Monterey Jack Cheese has a mild to full-flavored taste. Monterey Jack's aroma can be described as "aromatic". Pecorino Romano Cheese has a sharp, salty taste. Pecorino Romano's aroma can be described as "strong".

Appearance and Aging

Monterey Jack Cheese's appearance is colored cream to golden and is aged six weeks to ten months . 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

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

Ranking

Monterey Jack is ranked #22 out of 996 types based on community views. Pecorino Romano is ranked #74 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

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

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Which One Should You Choose?

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

Compare Monterey Jack Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Pecorino Romano Cheese to Other Cheeses