Muenster Cheese vs Pecorino Romano Cheese

In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Muenster Cheese and Pecorino Romano Cheese, including:

• "What is the difference between Muenster Cheese and Pecorino Romano Cheese?"
• "Is Muenster Cheese and Pecorino Romano Cheese the same?"
• "How does Muenster Cheese compare to Pecorino Romano Cheese cheese?"
• "How does the taste of Muenster Cheese compare to Pecorino Romano Cheese?"
• "Is Muenster Cheese or Pecorino Romano 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.

Pecorino Romano Cheese Overview

Pecorino Romano is one of the most ancient types of cheese and a staple in Italian cuisine. Made from sheep's milk, it is salty and sharp, traditionally used grated over pasta dishes, incorporated into sauces, or eaten on its own with a drizzle of honey. Pecorino Romano is predominantly produced in the regions of Lazio, Sardinia, and Tuscany.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Muenster Cheese comes from United States. Pecorino Romano 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. Pecorino Romano Cheese has a PDO (1996), DOP (1996).

Milk Type and Treatment

Muenster Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized. Pecorino Romano Cheese is made with sheep milk.

Composition and Texture

Muenster Cheese has a fat content of ~30-33% and a moisture content of ~40-45%. Muenster's texture can be described as "semi-soft". Pecorino Romano Cheese has a fat content of ~36%. Pecorino Romano's texture can be described as "hard".

Taste and Aroma

Muenster Cheese has a mild, buttery, slightly tangy taste. Muenster's aroma can be described as "mild, slightly milky". Pecorino Romano Cheese has a sharp, salty taste. Pecorino Romano's aroma can be described as "strong".

Appearance and Aging

Muenster Cheese's appearance is colored pale yellow interior, orange rind , is available in block, wheel, sliced and is aged typically 2-6 weeks . Pecorino Romano Cheese has a color of white interior, pale yellow to brown/black rind , comes in wheels, 49–71 lbs, 12–13" high, 11–12" wide and has an aging period of 5–8 months or longer .

Rind and Rennet Type

Muenster Cheese's rind is described as edible, orange-tinted (from annatto) and uses microbial or vegetarian (varies by producer) rennet. Pecorino Romano Cheese's rind is described as pale yellow to brown or black , with rennet rennet.

Ranking

Muenster is ranked #9 out of 996 types based on community views. Pecorino Romano is ranked #68 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Muenster and Pecorino Romano pages.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a semi-soft cheese, go for Muenster. But if you enjoy a hard consistency, Pecorino Romano might be the better pick. Muenster has a mild, buttery, slightly tangy taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Pecorino Romano offers a sharp, salty profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Muenster Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Pecorino Romano Cheese to Other Cheeses