Muenster Cheese vs Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese

In this article, we’ll explore the answers to the most common questions about Muenster Cheese and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese, including:

• "What is the difference between Muenster Cheese and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?"
• "Is Muenster Cheese and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese the same?"
• "How does Muenster Cheese compare to Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese cheese?"
• "How does the taste of Muenster Cheese compare to Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?"
• "Is Muenster Cheese or Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese better?"

Muenster Cheese Overview

Muenster is an American cheese derived from the Alsatian Munster cheese but milder in flavor. It has a smooth, soft texture and a bright orange rind, typically added to enhance its appearance. Muenster is excellent for melting over dishes like burgers and grilled cheese sandwiches.

Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese Overview

Parmigiano Reggiano is an iconic Italian cheese produced in specific regions of Italy, including Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, and parts of Mantua and Bologna. It is made from raw cow's milk and aged at least 12 months, developing a deep, complex flavor that's slightly nutty and salty. Parmigiano Reggiano is essential in Italian cooking and as a finishing cheese.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Ranking

Muenster is ranked #6 out of 377 types.

Parmigiano Reggiano is ranked #114 out of 377 types.

Country of Origin

Muenster Cheese comes from United States. Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese originated from Italy.

Certification

Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. Muenster is not a protected cheese. Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese has a PDO (1996).

Milk Type and Treatment

Muenster Cheese is made with cow milk. Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw.

Composition and Texture

Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese has a fat content of minimum 32%. Parmigiano Reggiano's texture can be described as "grainy, flaky".

Flavor and Aroma

Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese has a umami flavor. Parmigiano Reggiano's aroma can be described as "mild, milky".

Appearance and Aging

Muenster Cheese's appearance is colored pale with orange rind . Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese has a color of straw or light straw , comes in cylindrical, slightly convex sides and has an aging period of 12 to 36 months .

Rind and Rennet Type

Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese's rind is described as hard , with calf rennet.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Compare Muenster Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese to Other Cheeses