Pecorino Cheese vs Pecorino Romano Cheese

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

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

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.

Pecorino Romano Cheese Overview

Pecorino Romano is one of the most ancient types of cheese and a staple in Italian cuisine. Made from sheep's milk, it is salty and sharp, traditionally used grated over pasta dishes, incorporated into sauces, or eaten on its own with a drizzle of honey. Pecorino Romano is predominantly produced in the regions of Lazio, Sardinia, and Tuscany.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Pecorino Cheese comes from Italy. Pecorino Romano 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. Pecorino is not a protected cheese. Pecorino Romano Cheese has a PDO (1996), DOP (1996).

Milk Type and Treatment

Pecorino Cheese is made with sheep milk. Pecorino Romano Cheese is made with sheep milk.

Composition and Texture

Pecorino's texture can be described as "hard". Pecorino Romano Cheese has a fat content of ~36%. Pecorino Romano's texture can be described as "hard".

Taste and Aroma

Pecorino Romano Cheese has a sharp, salty taste. Pecorino Romano's aroma can be described as "strong".

Appearance and Aging

Pecorino Romano Cheese has a color of white interior, pale yellow to brown/black rind , comes in wheels, 49–71 lbs, 12–13" high, 11–12" wide and has an aging period of 5–8 months or longer .

Rind and Rennet Type

Pecorino Romano Cheese's rind is described as pale yellow to brown or black , with rennet rennet.

Ranking

Pecorino is ranked #167 out of 996 types based on community views. Pecorino Romano is ranked #64 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Pecorino and Pecorino Romano pages.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Which One Should You Choose?

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

Compare Pecorino Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Pecorino Romano Cheese to Other Cheeses