Brunost Cheese vs Rubens Cheese
Brunost Cheese is a semi-soft, whey cow and goat-milk cheese from Denmark, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Norway and Sweden, while Rubens Cheese is semi-soft and made from cow milk, originating in Belgium.
What Is Brunost Cheese?
Brunost, or "brown cheese," is a distinctly Norwegian dairy product, often classified as a cheese, though it differs from traditional cheeses. It is made by boiling down the whey of goat's milk, cow's milk, or a combination of both, until the water evaporates, and the natural milk sugars caramelize. This process gives Brunost its unique brown color, sweet caramel-like flavor, and fudge-like texture. It is commonly sliced thin and served on bread, crispbreads, or waffles.
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 Brunost Cheese and Rubens Cheese?
- Origin: Brunost Cheese (Denmark, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Norway and Sweden), Rubens Cheese (Belgium)
- Milk type: Brunost Cheese (cow's and goat's milk), Rubens Cheese (cow's milk)
- Texture: Brunost Cheese (semi-soft, whey), Rubens Cheese (semi-soft)
- Rind: Brunost Cheese (natural), Rubens Cheese (washed)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Brunost Cheese | Rubens Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Denmark, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Norway And Sweden | Belgium |
| Milk Type | Cow's and goat's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized or unpasteurized | — |
| Texture | Semi-soft, whey | Semi-soft |
| Rind | Natural | Washed |
| Taste | Caramel, sweet | — |
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Where to buy Brunost Cheese and Rubens Cheese
Brunost Cheese
Rubens Cheese
Taste Comparison: Does Brunost Cheese Taste Like Rubens Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Brunost Cheese for Rubens Cheese?
Brunost Cheese can stand in for Rubens Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe. Expect semi-soft, whey bite and body where the recipe calls for semi-soft.
Which Is Better, Brunost Cheese or Rubens Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a semi-soft, whey cheese, go with Brunost Cheese. For a semi-soft profile, Rubens Cheese is the better fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Brunost Cheese the same as Rubens Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Brunost Cheese originates in Denmark, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Norway and Sweden, while Rubens Cheese comes from Belgium. Brunost Cheese is made from cow and goat milk; Rubens Cheese uses cow.
Is Brunost Cheese similar to Rubens Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Brunost Cheese for Rubens Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in richness and milk character.
Does Brunost Cheese taste like Rubens Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Brunost Cheese made of?
Brunost Cheese is made from cow and goat milk (pasteurized or unpasteurized). It originates in Denmark, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Norway and Sweden.
What is Rubens Cheese made of?
Rubens Cheese is made from cow milk. It originates in Belgium.
Which should I choose, Brunost Cheese or Rubens Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Brunost Cheese is semi-soft, whey, while Rubens Cheese is semi-soft.
See full profiles: Brunost Cheese and Rubens Cheese.