Paneer Cheese vs Pecorino Cheese

In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Paneer Cheese and Pecorino Cheese, including:

• "What is the difference between Paneer Cheese and Pecorino Cheese?"
• "Is Paneer Cheese and Pecorino Cheese the same?"
• "How does Paneer Cheese compare to Pecorino Cheese cheese?"
• "How does the taste of Paneer Cheese compare to Pecorino Cheese?"
• "Is Paneer Cheese or Pecorino Cheese better?"

Paneer Cheese Overview

Paneer is a fresh, unaged cheese common in Indian and Pakistani cuisine. Made from cow or buffalo milk, it has a mild flavor and a dense, crumbly texture that holds its shape when cooked. Paneer doesn't melt, making it ideal for dishes like saag paneer, paneer tikka, and various curries where it absorbs flavors beautifully.

Pecorino Cheese Overview

Pecorino is a term for Italian cheeses made from sheep's milk. The most well-known varieties include Pecorino Romano, Pecorino Toscano, and Pecorino Sardo, each named after their region of origin. These cheeses vary in texture from soft and buttery to hard and granular, and they range in flavor from mild to sharp and salty, often aged to develop deeper flavors.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Paneer Cheese comes from Bangladesh and India. Pecorino Cheese originated from Italy.

Milk Type and Treatment

Paneer Cheese is made with cow or buffalo milk that is typically pasteurized. Pecorino Cheese is made with sheep milk.

Composition and Texture

Paneer's texture can be described as "semisoft, crumbly". Pecorino's texture can be described as "hard".

Taste and Aroma

Paneer Cheese has a mild, slightly milky taste. Paneer's aroma can be described as "very little aroma".

Appearance and Aging

Paneer Cheese's appearance is colored white , is available in rectangles, immersed in chilled water and is aged fresh .

Rind and Rennet Type

Paneer Cheese's rind is described as rindless and uses vinegar, lemon juice, yogurt, or buttermilk rennet.

Ranking

Paneer is ranked #220 out of 996 types based on community views. Pecorino is ranked #167 out of 996 types based on community views.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a semisoft, crumbly cheese, go for Paneer. But if you enjoy a hard consistency, Pecorino might be the better pick.

Compare Paneer Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Pecorino Cheese to Other Cheeses