Munster Cheese vs Ricotta Salata Cheese

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

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

Ricotta Salata Cheese Overview

Ricotta Salata is a pressed, salted, dried, and aged version of ricotta, which turns it into a firm, crumbly cheese with a mild, milky flavor and a slightly salty bite. It's frequently grated over pasta, salads, or used in cooked dishes where a gentle cheese flavor is desired.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Munster Cheese comes from France. Ricotta Salata 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). Ricotta Salata is not a protected cheese.

Milk Type and Treatment

Munster Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically unpasteurized. Ricotta Salata 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". Ricotta Salata's texture can be described as "semi-hard, whey".

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 #50 out of 996 types based on community views. Ricotta Salata is ranked #70 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Munster and Ricotta Salata 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 semi-hard, whey consistency, Ricotta Salata might be the better pick.

Compare Munster Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Ricotta Salata Cheese to Other Cheeses