Raclette-Style Cheese vs West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese
Raclette-Style Cheese is a cheese, while West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese is firm and made from cow milk.
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 Is West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese?
West Country Farmhouse Cheddar is a firm cow's milk cheese made by traditional methods in Somerset, Devon, Dorset and Cornwall. Its name has been protected in the EU and UK since 2007, and only milk from those four counties may be used.
What's the Difference Between Raclette-Style Cheese and West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese?
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Raclette-Style Cheese | West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Specific Origin | — | Dorset, Somerset, Devon And Cornwall |
| Milk Type | — | Cow |
| Milk Treatment | — | Raw |
| Texture | — | Firm |
| Rind | — | Cloth-wrapped |
| Aging | — | Minimum 9 months |
| Taste | — | Nutty, full-rounded with a hint of sharpness |
Taste Comparison: Does Raclette-Style Cheese Taste Like West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Raclette-Style Cheese for West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese?
Raclette-Style Cheese can stand in for West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Raclette-Style Cheese or West Country Farmhouse Cheddar 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 Raclette-Style Cheese the same as West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses.
Is Raclette-Style Cheese similar to West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Raclette-Style Cheese for West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Raclette-Style Cheese taste like West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Raclette-Style Cheese made of?
Raclette-Style Cheese is made from milk.
What is West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese made of?
West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese is made from cow milk (raw), using animal rennet. It's typically aged minimum 9 months.
Which should I choose, Raclette-Style Cheese or West Country Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.