Munster Cheese vs Pecorino Romano Cheese

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

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

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

Munster Cheese comes from France. 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. Munster Cheese has a AOC (1969). Pecorino Romano Cheese has a PDO (1996), DOP (1996).

Milk Type and Treatment

Munster Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically unpasteurized. Pecorino Romano Cheese is made with sheep milk.

Composition and Texture

Munster Cheese has a fat content of 45-48%. Munster's texture can be described as "semisoft". Pecorino Romano Cheese has a fat content of ~36%. Pecorino Romano's texture can be described as "hard".

Taste and Aroma

Munster Cheese has a strong, gamey taste. Munster's aroma can be described as "gamey, aromatic". Pecorino Romano Cheese has a sharp, salty taste. Pecorino Romano's aroma can be described as "strong".

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 . 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

Munster Cheese's rind is described as washed, saltwater solution and uses traditional rennet. Pecorino Romano Cheese's rind is described as pale yellow to brown or black , with rennet rennet.

Ranking

Munster is ranked #45 out of 996 types based on community views. Pecorino Romano is ranked #82 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

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

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a semisoft cheese, go for Munster. But if you enjoy a hard consistency, Pecorino Romano might be the better pick. Munster has a strong, gamey taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Pecorino Romano offers a sharp, salty profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Munster Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Pecorino Romano Cheese to Other Cheeses