Raclette Cheese vs Monterey Jack Cheese

In this article, we’ll explore the answers to the most common questions about Raclette Cheese and Monterey Jack Cheese, including:

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

Raclette Cheese Overview

Raclette is a semi-hard cheese made from cow's milk, famous for melting beautifully. It is native to parts of Switzerland and France. The cheese is typically heated, either in front of a fire or by a special machine, then scraped onto diners' plates; it's commonly served with small potatoes, gherkins, pickled onions, and dried meat.

Monterey Jack Cheese Overview

Monterey Jack is a popular American cheese originating from Monterey, California. It's known for its mild flavor and semi-soft texture, making it an excellent melting cheese. Monterey Jack can be enjoyed on its own or used in a variety of dishes, particularly Mexican and American cuisines, such as quesadillas and burgers.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Ranking

Raclette is ranked #58 out of 376 types.

Monterey Jack is ranked #24 out of 376 types.

Country of Origin

Raclette Cheese comes from Switzerland. Monterey Jack Cheese originated from United States.

Certification

Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. Raclette Cheese has a . Monterey Jack is not a protected cheese.

Milk Type and Treatment

Raclette Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw. Monterey Jack Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized.

Composition and Texture

Raclette Cheese has a moisture content of 36-44%. Raclette's texture can be described as "semisoft, smooth". Monterey Jack Cheese has a fat content of not less than 50% on a dry basis and a moisture content of 36-44%. Monterey Jack's texture can be described as "mild to firm".

Flavor and Aroma

Raclette Cheese has a mildly acidic flavor. Monterey Jack Cheese has a mild to full-flavored flavor.

Appearance and Aging

Raclette Cheese's appearance is available in wheel, 14-15 inches in diameter, approximately 3 inches in height and weighing between 15 to 18 pounds and is aged 3-4 months . Monterey Jack Cheese has a color of cream to golden and has an aging period of six weeks to ten months .

Rind and Rennet Type

Raclette Cheese's rind is described as washed and uses animal rennet. Monterey Jack Cheese uses animal rennet.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Raclette Cheese Monterey Jack Cheese
Country of Origin Switzerland United States
Specific Origin Alpine regions Monterey County, California
Certification None
Milk Type Cow's milk Pasteurized cow's milk
Milk Treatment Raw Pasteurized
Fat Content Not less than 50% on a dry basis
Moisture Content 36-44% Not more than 44%
Rind Washed
Texture Semisoft, smooth Mild to firm
Flavor Mildly acidic Mild to full-flavored
Colors Cream to golden
Forms Wheel, 14-15 inches in diameter, approximately 3 inches in height and weighing between 15 to 18 pounds
Age 3-4 months Six weeks to ten months
Rennet Type Animal Animal

Compare Raclette Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Monterey Jack Cheese to Other Cheeses