Munster Cheese vs Tulum Cheese
Munster Cheese is a semisoft cow-milk cheese from France, while Tulum Cheese is a goat-milk cheese, originating in Turkey.
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 Tulum Cheese?
Tulum is a Turkish goat's milk cheese ripened inside a goatskin casing, which is what the word tulum means in Turkish. It is made in several regions, and versions from Erzincan, İzmir, Divle, Çimi and Kargı each taste different.
What's the Difference Between Munster Cheese and Tulum Cheese?
- Origin: Munster Cheese (France), Tulum Cheese (Turkey)
- Milk type: Munster Cheese (cow's milk), Tulum Cheese (goat)
- Milk treatment: Munster Cheese (unpasteurized), Tulum Cheese (raw)
- Aging: Munster Cheese (4-6 weeks to 2-3 months), Tulum Cheese (about 6 months)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Munster Cheese | Tulum Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | France | Turkey |
| Specific Origin | Alsace, Lorraine, Franche-Comté | Turkey |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Goat |
| Milk Treatment | Unpasteurized | Raw |
| Texture | Semisoft | — |
| Rind | Washed, saltwater solution | — |
| Aging | 4-6 weeks to 2-3 months | About 6 months |
| Taste | Strong, gamey | — |
Taste Comparison: Does Munster Cheese Taste Like Tulum Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct. Aging plays into this as well. Munster Cheese at 4-6 weeks to 2-3 months develops a different profile than Tulum Cheese at about 6 months.
Can You Substitute Munster Cheese for Tulum Cheese?
Munster Cheese can stand in for Tulum Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Munster Cheese or Tulum 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 Tulum Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Munster Cheese originates in France, while Tulum Cheese comes from Turkey. Munster Cheese is made from cow milk; Tulum Cheese uses goat. Aging also differs: Munster Cheese is typically aged 4-6 weeks to 2-3 months, Tulum Cheese about 6 months.
Is Munster Cheese similar to Tulum Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Munster Cheese for Tulum Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in richness and milk character.
Does Munster Cheese taste like Tulum 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 Tulum Cheese made of?
Tulum Cheese is made from goat milk (raw). It's typically aged about 6 months. It originates in Turkey.
Which should I choose, Munster Cheese or Tulum Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.