Monterey Jack Cheese vs Ricotta Salata Cheese

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

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

Ricotta Salata Cheese Overview

Ricotta Salata is a pressed, salted, dried, and aged version of ricotta, which turns it into a firm, crumbly cheese with a mild, milky flavor and a slightly salty bite. It's frequently grated over pasta, salads, or used in cooked dishes where a gentle cheese flavor is desired.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

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

Milk Type and Treatment

Monterey Jack Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized. Ricotta Salata 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". Ricotta Salata's texture can be described as "semi-hard, whey".

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. Ricotta Salata is ranked #69 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Monterey Jack and Ricotta Salata 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 semi-hard, whey consistency, Ricotta Salata might be the better pick.

Compare Monterey Jack Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Ricotta Salata Cheese to Other Cheeses