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Munster Cheese vs Ricotta Cheese
Munster Cheese
Ricotta Cheese
In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Munster Cheese and Ricotta Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between Munster Cheese and Ricotta Cheese?"
- "Is Munster Cheese and Ricotta Cheese the same?"
- "How does Munster Cheese compare to Ricotta Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of Munster Cheese compare to Ricotta Cheese?"
- "Is Munster Cheese or Ricotta 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 Cheese Overview
Ricotta is a soft Italian cheese made from the whey left over from the production of other cheeses, primarily sheep, cow, goat, or buffalo milk. It has a creamy texture and a mild, sweet flavor, making it versatile for both savory dishes, like lasagna and ravioli, and sweet dishes, such as cheesecakes and cannoli.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Country of Origin
Munster Cheese comes from France. Ricotta 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 is not a protected cheese.
Milk Type and Treatment
Munster Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically unpasteurized. Ricotta Cheese is made with cow, goat, sheep, or buffalo milk that is typically unknown.
Composition and Texture
Munster Cheese has a fat content of 45-48%. Munster's texture can be described as "semisoft". Ricotta Cheese has a fat content of varies and a moisture content of none. Ricotta's texture can be described as "soft, moist".
Taste and Aroma
Munster Cheese has a strong, gamey taste. Munster's aroma can be described as "gamey, aromatic". Ricotta Cheese has a sweet, slightly creamy taste. Ricotta's aroma can be described as "mild".
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 . Ricotta Cheese has a color of white , comes in grainy soft mass and has an aging period of fresh .
Rind and Rennet Type
Munster Cheese's rind is described as washed, saltwater solution and uses traditional rennet. Ricotta Cheese's rind is described as none , with animal or microbial rennet.
Ranking
Munster is ranked #46 out of 996 types based on community views. Ricotta is ranked #20 out of 996 types based on community views.
Pairing Comparison
| Munster | Ricotta | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pairings | German Riesling, Riesling | Fruit Compote, Pumpkin |
| Other Good Pairings | Belgian Blonde | Albariño, Apricot, Asti Spumante, Bresaola, Honey, Honeycomb, Kiwi, Mangoes, Pesto, Raspberry, Roasted Vegetables, Strawberries |
For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Munster and Ricotta pages.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Munster Cheese | Ricotta Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | France | Italy |
| Specific Origin | Alsace, Lorraine, Franche-Comté | Not Specified |
| Certification | AOC (1969) | Not Specified |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's, goat's, sheep's or water buffalo's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Unpasteurized | Whey |
| Fat Content | 45-48% | Varies |
| Moisture Content | Not Specified | High |
| Rind | Washed, saltwater solution | None |
| Texture | Semisoft | Soft, moist |
| Taste | Strong, gamey | Sweet, slightly creamy |
| Aroma | Gamey, aromatic | Mild |
| Colors | Orangey-pink to orange-red | White |
| Forms | Flat wheel, 1-3 inches high, 5-8 inches diameter | Grainy soft mass |
| Age | 4-6 weeks to 2-3 months | Fresh |
| Rennet Type | Traditional rennet | Animal or Microbial |
Which One Should You Choose?
If you prefer a semisoft cheese, go for Munster. But if you enjoy a soft, moist consistency, Ricotta might be the better pick. Munster has a strong, gamey taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Ricotta offers a sweet, slightly creamy profile, ideal for different meals.
