Monterey Jack Cheese vs Raclette du Valais Cheese

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

• "What is the difference between Monterey Jack Cheese and Raclette du Valais Cheese?"
• "Is Monterey Jack Cheese and Raclette du Valais Cheese the same?"
• "How does Monterey Jack Cheese compare to Raclette du Valais Cheese cheese?"
• "How does the taste of Monterey Jack Cheese compare to Raclette du Valais Cheese?"
• "Is Monterey Jack Cheese or Raclette du Valais 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.

Raclette du Valais Cheese Overview

Raclette du Valais is a type of Raclette from the Swiss canton of Valais. It is a PDO product, known for its exceptionally creamy texture and robust flavor that enhances when melted. This cheese is traditionally made using raw cow’s milk and enjoyed as part of the iconic raclette meal.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Monterey Jack Cheese comes from Mexico and United States. Raclette du Valais Cheese originated from Switzerland.

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. Raclette du Valais Cheese has a GI (2011).

Milk Type and Treatment

Monterey Jack Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized. Raclette du Valais Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw.

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". Raclette du Valais Cheese has a moisture content of 36-44%. Raclette du Valais's texture can be described as "semisoft, smooth".

Taste and Aroma

Monterey Jack Cheese has a mild to full-flavored taste. Monterey Jack's aroma can be described as "aromatic". Raclette du Valais Cheese has a 'slightly lactic', 'milky', 'mildly acidic', 'fresh butter', 'floral', 'vegetal' taste.

Appearance and Aging

Monterey Jack Cheese's appearance is colored cream to golden and is aged six weeks to ten months . Raclette du Valais Cheese comes in wheel, specific to aoc standards, made in the canton of valais and has an aging period of minimum of 3-4 months, can vary based on cheesemaker .

Rind and Rennet Type

Monterey Jack Cheese uses animal rennet. Raclette du Valais Cheese's rind is described as washed , with animal rennet.

Ranking

Monterey Jack is ranked #21 out of 996 types based on community views. Raclette du Valais is ranked #296 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Monterey Jack and Raclette du Valais 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 semisoft, smooth consistency, Raclette du Valais might be the better pick. Monterey Jack has a mild to full-flavored taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Raclette du Valais offers a 'slightly lactic', 'milky', 'mildly acidic', 'fresh butter', 'floral', 'vegetal' profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Monterey Jack Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Raclette du Valais Cheese to Other Cheeses