Raclette Cheese vs Rubens Cheese
Raclette Cheese is a semisoft, smooth cow-milk cheese from Switzerland, while Rubens Cheese is semi-soft and made from cow milk, originating in Belgium.
Buy Raclette Cheese
Buy Rubens Cheese
What Is Raclette Cheese?
Raclette is a Swiss cheese and the dish made from it: the cheese is heated and the melted part is scraped off, usually onto boiled potatoes. It comes from the canton of Valais, where the cheese carries an AOP.
What Is Rubens Cheese?
Rubens is a semi-soft cheese from Belgium, made from cow's milk. It features a washed rind, which often gives it a slightly pungent aroma. The cheese has a creamy texture that is smooth and easy to slice. Its flavor is mild yet savory with a hint of nuttiness. The washed rind contributes to a subtle earthy taste, making it a pleasant choice for those who enjoy milder cheeses. Rubens pairs well with fresh fruits and crusty bread, and it can be a tasty addition to a cheese board.
What's the Difference Between Raclette Cheese and Rubens Cheese?
- Origin: Raclette Cheese (Switzerland), Rubens Cheese (Belgium)
- Texture: Raclette Cheese (Semisoft, smooth), Rubens Cheese (semi-soft)
- Rind: Raclette Cheese (Washed), Rubens Cheese (washed)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Raclette Cheese | Rubens Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Switzerland | Belgium |
| Specific Origin | Alpine Regions | — |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Raw | — |
| Texture | Semisoft, smooth | Semi-soft |
| Rind | Washed | Washed |
| Aging | 3-4 months | — |
| Taste | Mildly acidic | — |
Taste Comparison: Does Raclette Cheese Taste Like Rubens Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Raclette Cheese for Rubens Cheese?
In most recipes, Raclette Cheese and Rubens Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over. Expect semisoft, smooth bite and body where the recipe calls for semi-soft.
Which Is Better, Raclette Cheese or Rubens Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a semisoft, smooth cheese, go with Raclette Cheese. For a semi-soft profile, Rubens Cheese is the better fit.
Which is your favorite?
One click, anonymous. See what others chose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Raclette Cheese the same as Rubens Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Raclette Cheese originates in Switzerland, while Rubens Cheese comes from Belgium.
Is Raclette Cheese similar to Rubens Cheese?
Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.
Can I substitute Raclette Cheese for Rubens Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in bite and mouthfeel.
Does Raclette Cheese taste like Rubens Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Raclette Cheese made of?
Raclette Cheese is made from cow milk (raw), using animal rennet. It's typically aged 3-4 months. It originates in Switzerland.
What is Rubens Cheese made of?
Rubens Cheese is made from cow milk. It originates in Belgium.
Which should I choose, Raclette Cheese or Rubens Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Raclette Cheese is semisoft, smooth, while Rubens Cheese is semi-soft.