Munster Cheese vs 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

Ranking

Munster is ranked #70 out of 376 types.

Ricotta is ranked #25 out of 376 types.

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 raw. Ricotta Cheese is made with cow, 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".

Flavor and Aroma

Munster Cheese has a strong, gamey flavor. Munster's aroma can be described as "gamey, aromatic". Ricotta Cheese has a sweet, slightly creamy flavor. 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.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Munster Cheese Ricotta Cheese
Country of Origin France Italy
Specific Origin Alsace, Lorraine, Franche-Comté
Certification AOC (1969) None
Milk Type Cow's Cow's, Sheep's, Buffalo's
Milk Treatment Raw Whey
Fat Content 45-48% Varies
Moisture Content High
Rind Washed, saltwater solution None
Texture Semisoft Soft, moist
Flavor 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

Compare Munster Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Ricotta Cheese to Other Cheeses