Pérail Cheese vs Raclette-Style Cheese
Pérail Cheese is a soft sheep-milk cheese from France, while Raclette-Style Cheese is .
What Is Pérail Cheese?
Pérail is a soft sheep's milk cheese from Aveyron in southern France, sold in small rounds with an ivory, wrinkly rind. Older wheels taste distinctly sheepy.
What Is Raclette-Style Cheese?
Raclette-style cheese is a semi-hard cheese traditionally made from cow's milk. It has a creamy, smooth texture that becomes wonderfully gooey when melted, making it perfect for the classic Swiss dish where it's scraped over potatoes, meats, and vegetables. The flavor is mild and nutty, with a hint of sweetness that becomes more pronounced when heated. Its aroma is pleasantly earthy, reminiscent of the rustic Alpine regions where it originates. This cheese is typically aged for about three to six months, allowing it to develop its characteristic taste and texture. Raclette-style cheese is excellent for melting but also enjoyable when sliced and served on a cheese platter. It pairs well with white wines, such as a dry Riesling or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc.
What's the Difference Between Pérail Cheese and Raclette-Style Cheese?
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Pérail Cheese | Raclette-Style Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | France | — |
| Specific Origin | Aveyron, France | — |
| Milk Type | Sheep | — |
| Texture | Soft | — |
| Rind | Wrinkly, mainly Geotrichum candidum | — |
| Aging | 2 to 8 weeks | — |
| Taste | Distinctly sheepy in older cheeses | — |
Taste Comparison: Does Pérail Cheese Taste Like Raclette-Style Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Pérail Cheese for Raclette-Style Cheese?
Pérail Cheese can stand in for Raclette-Style Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Pérail Cheese or Raclette-Style 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 Pérail Cheese the same as Raclette-Style Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses.
Is Pérail Cheese similar to Raclette-Style Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Pérail Cheese for Raclette-Style Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Pérail Cheese taste like Raclette-Style Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Pérail Cheese made of?
Pérail Cheese is made from sheep milk. It's typically aged 2 to 8 weeks. It originates in France.
What is Raclette-Style Cheese made of?
Raclette-Style Cheese is made from milk.
Which should I choose, Pérail Cheese or Raclette-Style Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.