If you’ve ever been to a cheese shop, you know there’s a huge selection of different cheeses. Between camembert, gruyere, roquefort and emmental, choosing cheese according to uses could be an easy task for some and difficult for others. Nevertheless, in this article, you will discover the strengths and weaknesses of each of these types of cheese and which one to choose for your next party. Don’t forget to take a look at: The top 6 cheeses with the lowest calories
Pie chart:
Camembert is a delicious soft cheese originating from the region of Normandy, France. It is made from unpasteurized cow’s milk and has a characteristic white crust. Camembert is often eaten with bread or crackers, and can also be used in cooking.
Here are 4 reasons why camembert is so popular:
- Camembert has a rich, creamy flavor that is perfect for spreading on bread or crackers.
- Camembert’s unique rind gives it a special appearance that sets it apart from other cheeses.
- Camembert is made from unpasteurized milk, which means it retains all of its natural flavors and nutrients.
- Camembert is a versatile cheese that can be enjoyed in many different ways.
The weak points of Camembert:
- Camembert is a relatively soft cheese, which means it can easily mold if not stored properly.
- The white or orange rind is actually edible, but some people find it unappetizing.
- Camembert can be quite spicy, so it may not be the best choice for people with sensitive noses.
- This cheese is best when fresh, so it may not taste the same if left in the refrigerator too long.
Gruyere:
Gruyère is a type of cheese originating in Switzerland. It is made from cow’s milk and its rind is hard and yellowish brown in color. The texture of the cheese is smooth and creamy, with a slightly nutty flavor. Gruyere is a versatile cheese that can be used in cooked and uncooked dishes.
Here are 4 benefits of Gruyère cheese:
- Gruyère melts well, making it ideal for use in sauces, gratins and fondues.
- Gruyere pairs well with red and white wines, making it an excellent choice for entertaining.
- Unlike some other cheeses, Gruyere does not become bitter when heated, which makes it perfect for cooked dishes.
- Gruyere has a long shelf life, so it’s always available when you need it.
The weak points of Gruyère:
- Gruyere is quite high in fat. It is therefore not the healthiest cheese there is.
- The price of Gruyere can be quite high, especially if you buy it from a specialty cheese shop.
- The taste of Gruyere can be quite strong, which may not appeal to everyone.
Roquefort:
Roquefort cheese is a type of blue cheese made from sheep’s milk. It originates from the south of France and is one of the most popular blue cheeses in the world. The popularity of Roquefort cheese is due to many reasons.
Its strengths:
- It has a unique flavor that is both spicy and salty.
- Roquefort has a creamy texture that makes it perfect for spreading on bread or crackers.
- It’s relatively low in fat and calories, making it a healthier option than other types of cheese.
- Roquefort contains probiotics that may help improve gut health.
- It is an excellent source of calcium, providing 25% of the recommended daily intake per 100g.
Its weak points:
- Cheese can be quite crumbly, making it difficult to slice without making a mess.
- Its strong taste may not appeal to everyone. If you are serving Roquefort for the first time, it is better to also offer a milder blue cheese.
- Roquefort can be expensive, which may not be the best choice if you’re feeding a large group.
Emmental:
Emmentaler is a type of Swiss cheese that is characterized by its holes and its mild, nutty flavor. Although most commonly found in Switzerland, Emmental is also produced in neighboring countries such as France and Germany.
Here are 4 benefits of Emmental cheese:
- Emmenthal’s holes help trap and release flavor molecules, making it tastier than other types of cheese.
- The unique bacterial culture used to make Emmentaler gives it a distinct flavor that is both sweet and nutty.
- Emmental is a good source of calcium, phosphorus and vitamin B12.
- Emmentaler goes well with a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, breads and meats.
Its weak points:
- Its taste can be quite strong, which some people find off-putting.
- Its texture can be a bit grainy.
- The holes can make the cheese difficult to slice.