Munster Cheese vs Pecorino Cheese

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

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

Pecorino is a term for Italian cheeses made from sheep's milk. The most well-known varieties include Pecorino Romano, Pecorino Toscano, and Pecorino Sardo, each named after their region of origin. These cheeses vary in texture from soft and buttery to hard and granular, and they range in flavor from mild to sharp and salty, often aged to develop deeper flavors.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Munster Cheese comes from France. Pecorino 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 is not a protected cheese.

Milk Type and Treatment

Munster Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically unpasteurized. Pecorino 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'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".

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 .

Rind and Rennet Type

Munster Cheese's rind is described as washed, saltwater solution and uses traditional rennet.

Ranking

Munster is ranked #47 out of 996 types based on community views. Pecorino is ranked #171 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Munster and Pecorino 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 might be the better pick.

Compare Munster Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Pecorino Cheese to Other Cheeses