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Munster Cheese vs Raclette Cheese
Munster Cheese
Raclette Cheese
In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Munster Cheese and Raclette Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between Munster Cheese and Raclette Cheese?"
- "Is Munster Cheese and Raclette Cheese the same?"
- "How does Munster Cheese compare to Raclette Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of Munster Cheese compare to Raclette Cheese?"
- "Is Munster Cheese or Raclette 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.
Raclette Cheese Overview
Raclette is a semi-hard cheese made from cow's milk, famous for melting beautifully. It is native to parts of Switzerland and France. The cheese is typically heated, either in front of a fire or by a special machine, then scraped onto diners' plates; it's commonly served with small potatoes, gherkins, pickled onions, and dried meat.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Country of Origin
Munster Cheese comes from France. Raclette Cheese originated from Switzerland.
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). Raclette Cheese has a .
Milk Type and Treatment
Munster Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically unpasteurized. Raclette 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". Raclette Cheese has a moisture content of 36-44%. Raclette's texture can be described as "semisoft, smooth".
Taste and Aroma
Munster Cheese has a strong, gamey taste. Munster's aroma can be described as "gamey, aromatic". Raclette Cheese has a mildly acidic taste.
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 . Raclette Cheese comes in wheel, 14-15 inches in diameter, approximately 3 inches in height and weighing between 15 to 18 pounds and has an aging period of 3-4 months .
Rind and Rennet Type
Munster Cheese's rind is described as washed, saltwater solution and uses traditional rennet. Raclette Cheese's rind is described as washed , with animal rennet.
Ranking
Munster is ranked #46 out of 996 types based on community views. Raclette is ranked #55 out of 996 types based on community views.
Pairing Comparison
| Munster | Raclette | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pairings | German Riesling, Riesling | No pairings listed. |
| Other Good Pairings | Belgian Blonde | Riesling |
For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Munster and Raclette pages.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Munster Cheese | Raclette Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | France | Switzerland |
| Specific Origin | Alsace, Lorraine, Franche-Comté | Alpine Regions |
| Certification | AOC (1969) | |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Unpasteurized | Raw |
| Fat Content | 45-48% | Not Specified |
| Moisture Content | Not Specified | 36-44% |
| Rind | Washed, saltwater solution | Washed |
| Texture | Semisoft | Semisoft, smooth |
| Taste | Strong, gamey | Mildly acidic |
| Aroma | Gamey, aromatic | Not Specified |
| Colors | Orangey-pink to orange-red | Not Specified |
| Forms | Flat wheel, 1-3 inches high, 5-8 inches diameter | Wheel, 14-15 inches in diameter, approximately 3 inches in height and weighing between 15 to 18 pounds |
| Age | 4-6 weeks to 2-3 months | 3-4 months |
| Rennet Type | Traditional rennet | Animal |
Which One Should You Choose?
If you prefer a semisoft cheese, go for Munster. But if you enjoy a semisoft, smooth consistency, Raclette might be the better pick. Munster has a strong, gamey taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Raclette offers a mildly acidic profile, ideal for different meals.
