Jarlsberg Cheese vs Queso Blanco
Jarlsberg Cheese is a semihard cow-milk cheese from Norway, while Queso Blanco is a cow-milk cheese.
What Is Jarlsberg Cheese?
Jarlsberg is a mild Swiss-type cheese from Norway, made from cow's milk and named after Jarlsberg Manor. It is known for its buttery, slightly sweet and nutty flavor and its medium to large holes.
What Is Queso Blanco?
Queso blanco is the white, fresh cheese of Latin America, made by curdling hot milk with an acid such as vinegar. No rennet or culture goes into it, and depending on the country it is crumbled over soups, fried as queso frito, or melted into quesadillas.
What's the Difference Between Jarlsberg Cheese and Queso Blanco?
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Jarlsberg Cheese | Queso Blanco | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Norway | — |
| Specific Origin | Jarlsberg, Vestfold, Norway | Latin America |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized | — |
| Texture | Semihard | — |
| Rind | Plastic-covered | — |
| Aging | Three months to twelve months | — |
| Taste | Mild, sweet, nutty | — |
Taste Comparison: Does Jarlsberg Cheese Taste Like Queso Blanco?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Jarlsberg Cheese for Queso Blanco?
In most recipes, Jarlsberg Cheese and Queso Blanco can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over.
Which Is Better, Jarlsberg Cheese or Queso Blanco?
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 Jarlsberg Cheese the same as Queso Blanco?
No, they're distinct cheeses.
Is Jarlsberg Cheese similar to Queso Blanco?
Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.
Can I substitute Jarlsberg Cheese for Queso Blanco?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Jarlsberg Cheese taste like Queso Blanco?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Jarlsberg Cheese made of?
Jarlsberg Cheese is made from cow milk (pasteurized), using animal rennet. It's typically aged three months to twelve months. It originates in Norway.
What is Queso Blanco made of?
Queso Blanco is made from cow milk, using none rennet.
Which should I choose, Jarlsberg Cheese or Queso Blanco?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.