Monterey Jack Cheese vs Pecorino Cheese

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

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

Pecorino is a term for Italian cheeses made from sheep's milk. The most well-known varieties include Pecorino Romano, Pecorino Toscano, and Pecorino Sardo, each named after their region of origin. These cheeses vary in texture from soft and buttery to hard and granular, and they range in flavor from mild to sharp and salty, often aged to develop deeper flavors.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Monterey Jack Cheese comes from Mexico and United States. Pecorino Cheese originated from Italy.

Milk Type and Treatment

Monterey Jack Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized. Pecorino 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'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".

Appearance and Aging

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

Rind and Rennet Type

Monterey Jack Cheese uses animal rennet.

Ranking

Monterey Jack is ranked #23 out of 996 types based on community views. Pecorino is ranked #164 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Monterey Jack and Pecorino 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 might be the better pick.

Compare Monterey Jack Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Pecorino Cheese to Other Cheeses