Monterey Jack Cheese vs Raclette Cheese

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

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

Raclette is a semi-hard cheese made from cow's milk, famous for melting beautifully. It is native to parts of Switzerland and France. The cheese is typically heated, either in front of a fire or by a special machine, then scraped onto diners' plates; it's commonly served with small potatoes, gherkins, pickled onions, and dried meat.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Monterey Jack Cheese comes from Mexico and United States. Raclette 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 Cheese has a .

Milk Type and Treatment

Monterey Jack Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized. Raclette 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 Cheese has a moisture content of 36-44%. Raclette'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 Cheese has a mildly acidic taste.

Appearance and Aging

Monterey Jack Cheese's appearance is colored cream to golden and is aged six weeks to ten months . Raclette Cheese comes in wheel, 14-15 inches in diameter, approximately 3 inches in height and weighing between 15 to 18 pounds and has an aging period of 3-4 months .

Rind and Rennet Type

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

Ranking

Monterey Jack is ranked #22 out of 996 types based on community views. Raclette is ranked #55 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Monterey Jack and Raclette 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 might be the better pick. Monterey Jack has a mild to full-flavored taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Raclette offers a mildly acidic profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Monterey Jack Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Raclette Cheese to Other Cheeses