Toma Cheese vs Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)
Toma Cheese
Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)
Toma Cheese is a semi-hard cow-milk cheese from Italy, while Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) is semi-soft, washed-rind and made from cow milk, originating in Australia.
Buy Toma Cheese
Buy Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)
What Is Toma Cheese?
Toma is a soft to semi-hard Italian cow's milk cheese from the Aosta Valley and Piedmont. It melts exceptionally well, and its Piedmontese version, toma piemontese, carries PDO status under EU law.
What Is Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?
Washed Rind Cheese from Australia is made using cow's milk and is known for its smear-ripened texture, which can range from soft to hard or semi-hard. The flavor profile of this cheese is a mix of nutty, sharp, and sweet notes, making it appealing to a variety of palates. Its aroma is quite strong and earthy, which is typical of washed rind cheeses. The washed rind technique contributes to its distinctive smell and flavor, as it encourages the growth of specific bacteria on the surface. This cheese can be a great addition to a cheese board, enjoyed on its own, or paired with fruits and bread.
What's the Difference Between Toma Cheese and Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?
- Origin: Toma Cheese (Italy), Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) (Australia)
- Texture: Toma Cheese (Semi-hard), Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) (Semi-soft, washed-rind)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Toma Cheese | Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Italy | Australia |
| Specific Origin | Aosta Valley And Piedmont, Italy | — |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized | — |
| Texture | Semi-hard | Semi-soft, washed-rind |
| Rind | — | Washed |
| Taste | — | Nutty, sharp, sweet |
Taste Comparison: Does Toma Cheese Taste Like Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Toma Cheese for Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?
In most recipes, Toma Cheese and Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over. Expect semi-hard bite and body where the recipe calls for semi-soft, washed-rind.
Which Is Better, Toma Cheese or Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a semi-hard cheese, go with Toma Cheese. For a semi-soft, washed-rind profile, Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) is the better fit.
Which is your favorite?
One click, anonymous. See what others chose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Toma Cheese the same as Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Toma Cheese originates in Italy, while Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) comes from Australia.
Is Toma Cheese similar to Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?
Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.
Can I substitute Toma Cheese for Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?
You can, but expect a shift in bite and mouthfeel.
Does Toma Cheese taste like Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Toma Cheese made of?
Toma Cheese is made from cow milk (pasteurized). It originates in Italy.
What is Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) made of?
Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) is made from cow milk. It originates in Australia.
Which should I choose, Toma Cheese or Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?
It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Toma Cheese is semi-hard, while Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) is semi-soft, washed-rind.