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Monterey Jack Cheese vs Provolone Cheese
Monterey Jack Cheese
Provolone Cheese
In this article, we’ll explore the answers to the most common questions about Monterey Jack Cheese and Provolone Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between Monterey Jack Cheese and Provolone Cheese?"
- "Is Monterey Jack Cheese and Provolone Cheese the same?"
- "How does Monterey Jack Cheese compare to Provolone Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of Monterey Jack Cheese compare to Provolone Cheese?"
- "Is Monterey Jack Cheese or Provolone 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.
Provolone Cheese Overview
Provolone is a well-known Italian cheese with a smooth, firm texture and a mild, slightly tangy flavor that becomes sharper and more robust with age. Made from cow's milk, this stretched-curd cheese can be aged from a few months to a year or more. Provolone is excellent for slicing, grating, or melting.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Ranking
Monterey Jack is ranked #24 out of 377 types.
Provolone is ranked #4 out of 377 types.
Country of Origin
Monterey Jack Cheese comes from United States. Provolone Cheese originated from Italy.
Milk Type and Treatment
Monterey Jack Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized. Provolone Cheese is made with cow 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".
Flavor and Aroma
Monterey Jack Cheese has a mild to full-flavored flavor.
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.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Monterey Jack Cheese | Provolone Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | United States | Italy |
| Specific Origin | Monterey County, California | |
| Milk Type | Pasteurized cow's milk | Cow |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized | |
| Fat Content | Not less than 50% on a dry basis | |
| Moisture Content | Not more than 44% | |
| Texture | Mild to firm | |
| Flavor | Mild to full-flavored | |
| Colors | Cream to golden | |
| Age | Six weeks to ten months | |
| Rennet Type | Animal |
