Munster Cheese vs Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese

Munster Cheese

Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese

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

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

Munster Cheese Overview

Munster is a strong-smelling, soft cheese from the Alsace and Lorraine regions of France. It has a washed rind, which gives it a red-orange color and a distinctive pungent aroma. The flavor is rich and tangy, often enjoyed with cumin seeds and paired with beers or strong wines.

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

Munster is ranked #45 out of 866 types based on community views.

Parmigiano Reggiano is ranked #110 out of 866 types based on community views.

Country of Origin

Munster Cheese comes from France. 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. Munster Cheese has a AOC (1969). Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese has a PDO (1996).

Milk Type and Treatment

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

Composition and Texture

Munster Cheese has a fat content of 45-48%. Munster's texture can be described as "semisoft". Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese has a fat content of minimum 32%. Parmigiano Reggiano's texture can be described as "grainy, flaky".

Flavor and Aroma

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

Appearance and Aging

Munster Cheese's appearance is colored orangey-pink to orange-red , is available in flat wheel, 1-3 inches high, 5-8 inches diameter and is aged 4-6 weeks to 2-3 months . 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

Munster Cheese's rind is described as washed, saltwater solution and uses traditional rennet. Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese's rind is described as hard , with calf rennet.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Munster Cheese Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese
Country of Origin France Italy
Specific Origin Alsace, Lorraine, Franche-Comté Emilia-Romagna region
Certification AOC (1969) PDO (1996)
Milk Type cow's milk Cow's milk
Milk Treatment unpasteurized Raw
Fat Content 45-48% Minimum 32%
Rind Washed, saltwater solution Hard
Texture Semisoft Grainy, flaky
Flavor Strong, gamey Umami
Aroma Gamey, aromatic Mild, Milky
Colors Orangey-pink to orange-red Straw or light straw
Forms Flat wheel, 1-3 inches high, 5-8 inches diameter Cylindrical, slightly convex sides
Age 4-6 weeks to 2-3 months 12 to 36 months
Rennet Type Traditional rennet Calf rennet

Compare Munster Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese to Other Cheeses

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