Munster Cheese vs Sheep's Milk Cheese
Munster Cheese is a semisoft cow-milk cheese from France, while Sheep's Milk Cheese is a sheep-milk cheese.
What Is Munster Cheese?
Munster, also called Munster-géromé, is a soft cheese made from raw cow's milk in the Vosges of eastern France. Brine washing during aging leaves it with a moist orange rind, a penetrating smell and a very strong taste.
What Is Sheep's Milk Cheese?
Sheep's milk cheese is cheese made from ewe's milk, one of the three main milks used for cheese alongside cow and goat. Because sheep milk is high in fat, these cheeses are known for a concentrated, full-bodied taste.
What's the Difference Between Munster Cheese and Sheep's Milk Cheese?
- Milk type: Munster Cheese (cow's milk), Sheep's Milk Cheese (sheep)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Munster Cheese | Sheep's Milk Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | France | — |
| Specific Origin | Alsace, Lorraine, Franche-Comté | — |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Sheep |
| Milk Treatment | Unpasteurized | — |
| Texture | Semisoft | — |
| Rind | Washed, saltwater solution | — |
| Aging | 4-6 weeks to 2-3 months | — |
| Taste | Strong, gamey | — |
Taste Comparison: Does Munster Cheese Taste Like Sheep's Milk Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Munster Cheese for Sheep's Milk Cheese?
Munster Cheese can stand in for Sheep's Milk Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Munster Cheese or Sheep's Milk Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want.
Which is your favorite?
One click, anonymous. See what others chose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Munster Cheese the same as Sheep's Milk Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Munster Cheese is made from cow milk; Sheep's Milk Cheese uses sheep.
Is Munster Cheese similar to Sheep's Milk Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Munster Cheese for Sheep's Milk Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in richness and milk character.
Does Munster Cheese taste like Sheep's Milk Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Munster Cheese made of?
Munster Cheese is made from cow milk (unpasteurized), using traditional rennet. It's typically aged 4-6 weeks to 2-3 months. It originates in France.
What is Sheep's Milk Cheese made of?
Sheep's Milk Cheese is made from sheep milk, using animal or microbial rennet.
Which should I choose, Munster Cheese or Sheep's Milk Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.