Provolone Cheese vs Washed Rind Cheese
Provolone Cheese
Washed Rind Cheese
Provolone Cheese is a semi-hard, artisan cow-milk cheese from Italy, while Washed Rind Cheese is .
What Is Provolone Cheese?
Provolone is a well-known Italian cheese with a smooth, firm texture and a mild, slightly tangy flavor that becomes sharper and more robust with age. Made from cow's milk, this stretched-curd cheese can be aged from a few months to a year or more. Provolone is excellent for slicing, grating, or melting.
What Is Washed Rind Cheese?
Washed Rind cheese is known for its strong aroma and rich, savory flavor profile. This type of cheese is characterized by its orange to reddish exterior, which results from regular washing with brine or alcohol during the aging process. The washing encourages the growth of specific bacteria that contribute to its pungent smell and distinct taste. The texture can range from soft and creamy to semi-soft, often with a slightly sticky rind. Inside, the cheese is usually buttery and smooth, offering a bold taste that can be mildly salty with a hint of sweetness. Washed Rind cheeses are best enjoyed with hearty breads and can pair well with robust wines or beers, which help balance their intense flavors. Popular examples include Limburger, Taleggio, and Epoisses.
What's the Difference Between Provolone Cheese and Washed Rind Cheese?
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Provolone Cheese | Washed Rind Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Italy | — |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | — |
| Texture | Semi-hard, artisan | — |
| Taste | Tangy | — |
Pairing Comparison
What works with each cheese — wines, foods, breads, and more.
| Provolone Cheese | Washed Rind Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pairings | Pastrami, Salami | — |
| Other Good Pairings | Chorizo, Grilled Cheese, Ham, Pinot Grigio, Pulled Pork, Roast Beef, Steak, Tomatoes, Tuna, Turkey | — |
Which would you pick?
One click, anonymous — see what others chose.
Where to buy Provolone Cheese and Washed Rind Cheese
Provolone Cheese
Washed Rind Cheese
Taste Comparison: Does Provolone Cheese Taste Like Washed Rind Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Provolone Cheese for Washed Rind Cheese?
Provolone Cheese can stand in for Washed Rind Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Provolone Cheese or Washed Rind Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Provolone Cheese the same as Washed Rind Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses.
Is Provolone Cheese similar to Washed Rind Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Provolone Cheese for Washed Rind Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Provolone Cheese taste like Washed Rind Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Provolone Cheese made of?
Provolone Cheese is made from cow milk. It originates in Italy.
What is Washed Rind Cheese made of?
Washed Rind Cheese is made from milk.
Which should I choose, Provolone Cheese or Washed Rind Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.
See full profiles: Provolone Cheese and Washed Rind Cheese.