Ricotta Cheese vs Emmental Cheese

In this article, we’ll explore the answers to the most common questions about Ricotta Cheese and Emmental Cheese, including:

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

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.

Emmental Cheese Overview

Emmental is a classic Swiss cheese, known for its large holes and nutty, mild flavor. It is made from cow's milk and has a hard, dense texture. The holes, or "eyes," develop during the fermentation process as a result of gas released by the bacteria in the cheese. Emmental is often used in sandwiches and is a key ingredient in traditional Swiss fondue.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Ranking

Ricotta is ranked #21 out of 377 types.

Emmental is ranked #18 out of 377 types.

Country of Origin

Ricotta Cheese comes from Italy. Emmental Cheese originated from Switzerland.

Certification

Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. Ricotta is not a protected cheese. Emmental Cheese has a PDO (2004).

Milk Type and Treatment

Ricotta Cheese is made with cow, sheep, or buffalo milk that is typically unknown. Emmental Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw.

Composition and Texture

Ricotta Cheese has a fat content of varies and a moisture content of high. Ricotta's texture can be described as "soft, moist". Emmental Cheese has a fat content of minimum of 45% (dry matter). Emmental's texture can be described as "hard or medium-hard".

Flavor and Aroma

Ricotta Cheese has a sweet, slightly creamy flavor. Ricotta's aroma can be described as "mild". Emmental Cheese has a nutty, sweet flavor.

Appearance and Aging

Ricotta Cheese's appearance is colored white , is available in grainy soft mass and is aged fresh . Emmental Cheese has a color of yellow , comes in round loaves and has an aging period of 4 months to over 1 year .

Rind and Rennet Type

Ricotta Cheese's rind is described as none and uses animal or microbial rennet.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Compare Ricotta Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Emmental Cheese to Other Cheeses