Jarlsberg Cheese vs Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)

Jarlsberg Cheese is a semihard cow-milk cheese from Norway, while Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) is soft, hard, semi-hard, smear-ripened and made from cow milk, originating in Australia.

What Is Jarlsberg Cheese?

Jarlsberg is a famous Norwegian cheese, known for its distinctive sweet and nutty taste. It is a semi-soft cheese with large, round holes. Jarlsberg is versatile and can be sliced, grilled, or melted. It is often used in sandwiches, as a burger topping, or simply enjoyed on its own.

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 Jarlsberg Cheese and Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?

• Origin: Jarlsberg Cheese (Norway), Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) (Australia)
• Texture: Jarlsberg Cheese (Semihard), Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) (soft, hard, semi-hard, smear-ripened)
• Rind: Jarlsberg Cheese (Plastic-covered), Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) (washed)
• Taste: Jarlsberg Cheese (Mild, sweet, nutty), Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) (nutty, sharp, sweet)

Side-by-Side Comparison

Taste Comparison: Does Jarlsberg Cheese Taste Like Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?

Jarlsberg Cheese reads as mild, sweet, nutty, while Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) brings nutty, sharp, sweet character.

Can You Substitute Jarlsberg Cheese for Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?

In most recipes, Jarlsberg Cheese and Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over. Expect semihard bite and body where the recipe calls for soft, hard, semi-hard, smear-ripened. Flavor-wise, Jarlsberg Cheese reads as mild, sweet, nutty while Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) brings nutty, sharp, sweet notes.

Which Is Better, Jarlsberg 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 semihard cheese, go with Jarlsberg Cheese. For a soft, hard, semi-hard, smear-ripened profile, Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) is the better fit. Flavor-wise, Jarlsberg Cheese suits recipes that want mild, sweet, nutty notes, while Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) fits dishes calling for nutty, sharp, sweet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Jarlsberg Cheese the same as Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?

No, they're distinct cheeses. Jarlsberg Cheese originates in Norway, while Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) comes from Australia.

Is Jarlsberg Cheese similar to Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?

Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.

Can I substitute Jarlsberg Cheese for Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?

You can, but expect a shift in bite and mouthfeel.

Does Jarlsberg Cheese taste like Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?

Jarlsberg Cheese reads as mild, sweet, nutty, while Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) is nutty, sharp, sweet.

What is Jarlsberg Cheese made of?

Jarlsberg Cheese is made from cow milk (pasteurized), using animal rennet. It's typically aged three months to twelve months. It originates in Norway.

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, Jarlsberg Cheese or Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?

It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Jarlsberg Cheese is semihard, while Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) is soft, hard, semi-hard, smear-ripened.