, then select "Add to Home Screen" to get instant access.
Log In
Explore
Cheeses
Cheesemakers
Types
Pairings
Cheese Map
Free Tools
Raclette Cheese vs Ricotta Cheese
Raclette Cheese
Ricotta Cheese
In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Raclette Cheese and Ricotta Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between Raclette Cheese and Ricotta Cheese?"
- "Is Raclette Cheese and Ricotta Cheese the same?"
- "How does Raclette Cheese compare to Ricotta Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of Raclette Cheese compare to Ricotta Cheese?"
- "Is Raclette Cheese or Ricotta 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.
Ricotta Cheese Overview
Ricotta is a soft Italian cheese made from the whey left over from the production of other cheeses, primarily sheep, cow, goat, or buffalo milk. It has a creamy texture and a mild, sweet flavor, making it versatile for both savory dishes, like lasagna and ravioli, and sweet dishes, such as cheesecakes and cannoli.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Country of Origin
Raclette Cheese comes from Switzerland. Ricotta 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. Raclette Cheese has a . Ricotta is not a protected cheese.
Milk Type and Treatment
Raclette Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw. Ricotta Cheese is made with cow, goat, sheep, or buffalo milk that is typically unknown.
Composition and Texture
Raclette Cheese has a moisture content of 36-44%. Raclette's texture can be described as "semisoft, smooth". Ricotta Cheese has a fat content of varies and a moisture content of 36-44%. Ricotta's texture can be described as "soft, moist".
Taste and Aroma
Raclette Cheese has a mildly acidic taste. Ricotta Cheese has a sweet, slightly creamy taste. Ricotta's aroma can be described as "mild".
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 . Ricotta Cheese has a color of white , comes in grainy soft mass and has an aging period of fresh .
Rind and Rennet Type
Raclette Cheese's rind is described as washed and uses animal rennet. Ricotta Cheese's rind is described as none , with animal or microbial rennet.
Ranking
Raclette is ranked #61 out of 996 types based on community views. Ricotta is ranked #20 out of 996 types based on community views.
Pairing Comparison
| Raclette | Ricotta | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pairings | No pairings listed. | Fruit Compote, Pumpkin |
| Other Good Pairings | Riesling | Albariño, Apricot, Asti Spumante, Bresaola, Honey, Honeycomb, Kiwi, Mangoes, Pesto, Raspberry, Roasted Vegetables, Strawberries |
For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Raclette and Ricotta pages.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Raclette Cheese | Ricotta Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Switzerland | Italy |
| Specific Origin | Alpine Regions | Not Specified |
| Certification | Not Specified | |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's, goat's, sheep's or water buffalo's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Raw | Whey |
| Fat Content | Not Specified | Varies |
| Moisture Content | 36-44% | High |
| Rind | Washed | None |
| Texture | Semisoft, smooth | Soft, moist |
| Taste | Mildly acidic | Sweet, slightly creamy |
| Aroma | Not Specified | Mild |
| Colors | Not Specified | White |
| Forms | Wheel, 14-15 inches in diameter, approximately 3 inches in height and weighing between 15 to 18 pounds | Grainy soft mass |
| Age | 3-4 months | Fresh |
| Rennet Type | Animal | Animal or Microbial |
Which One Should You Choose?
If you prefer a semisoft, smooth cheese, go for Raclette. But if you enjoy a soft, moist consistency, Ricotta might be the better pick. Raclette has a mildly acidic taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Ricotta offers a sweet, slightly creamy profile, ideal for different meals.
