15 Different Types of Cheese You Must Know If You’re A Jerry

Are you a cheese lover but still stuck at mozzarella and parmesan? Well, it’s time for you to move on from the basic. There’s a wide variety of cheese available that you can add in your recipe. But for starters, you must know at least 15 different types of cheese that can make your food extra delicious.

Cheese comes in different forms, textures, and you can use it in several ways. Some are soft, creamy and salty but some are hard, nutty and tangy. Thus, it’s important to find the right cheese that blends well with your meal.

15 different types of cheese

Here’s a list of 15 different types of cheese recommended by cheese mongers that will make your food extra special:

1. Mozzarella

When you talk about cheese, the first name that immediately comes to mind is mozzarella. Mozzarella is the queen of cheeses due to its most popular usage.

This traditional cheese originally came from Southern Italy and is made from buffalo’s milk. However, the mozzarella cheese that is available in the market today comes from cow milk.

It is slightly milky in flavor and has a soft, chewy texture. Though it’s most commonly used in pizzas and sandwiches, it can also be used in a variety of other dishes.

2. Parmesan

The pasta that you often enjoy mostly has parmesan cheese in it, making it one of the most popular out of 15 different types of cheese. Parmesan, also known as Parmigiano-Reggiano, comes from cow milk. This famous cheese is made in and around the Italian province of Parma and is often considered one of the top cheeses by cheese connoisseurs.

It takes around a year to age the cheese and create a hard crumbly texture. Its nutty and savory flavor can make any boring dish into the most exciting one.

This flavorful cheese can be grated over a variety of dishes such as soup, salads, vegetable creams, etc. You can also taste its flavor in smashed potatoes and other popular dishes like shepherd’s pie.

3. Cheddar

Have you ever wondered what cheese is used in popcorn that makes it so delicious? Well, your guess is absolutely right! It is undoubtedly cheddar cheese. This orange colour cheese is commonly used in some of your favourite snacks like burgers, chips, and sandwiches.

It is also one of the most extensively used cheeses in the world and has a semi-hard, crumbly texture. The sweet and salty, buttery flavor of cheddar adds a bit of extra charm to your dish.

4. Swiss Cheese

You might’ve come across the cheese that has holes in it. Well, it is none other than Swiss cheese, also known as Emmental. This famous cheese has a sweet, nutty flavor and is a common part of cheese breads, salads, and sandwiches.

It is also a primary ingredient in some classic dishes like Fondues, Croque Monsieur and Raclette.

But apart from its taste, Swiss cheese is also beneficial for health as it is rich in protein and calcium.

Moreover, the holes in the cheese are produced due to its release of carbon dioxide gas during the process of cheese making.

5. Ricotta

Ricotta is an Italian cheese which is made from the leftover whey of cow, goat, sheep, or buffalo. It is a by-product of creating other kinds of cheeses like mozzarella and provolone. It often goes well with cheese cakes, stuffed pasta, and cookies.

Moreover, if you are casein intolerant, then ricotta is the cheese best suited for you. It is also recommended by dieticians for its low fat and high protein.

6. Feta

Feta is a Greek cheese that has long been a mainstay across numerous Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. This crumbly yet creamy cheese is typically made from the milk of goat or sheep.

Known for its savory taste and soft texture, it is one of the most popular cheese around the world.

It is commonly used as a topping in pizza, but you can also enjoy its taste in casseroles and pastries.

7. Camembert

Camembert is perhaps one of the most popular French cheeses around the world. But not many are familiar with this cheese. It has a soft, creamy texture and comes from cow’s milk.

However, unlike other cheeses, it has a strong flavor and a pungent smell. Often served with crackers and fruits, this cheese leaves you with a slightly earthy flavor and a sweet after taste.

8. Blue Cheese

Not many are excited when it comes to Blue Cheese. It is mostly passed over due to its pungent smell and unfamiliar appearance. It is also quite different from your typical hard cheese.

Often used as a type of condiment, this creamy textured cheese has an intense salty flavor. Due to its blue molded veins, it also referred as the Blue Vein Cheese.

There are various kinds of blue cheese, but Roquefort is considered to be the most famous one in France.

9. Cottage Cheese

Have you tried cottage cheese before? If not, then you must try it once. It’s a mild-flavored, soft white cheese with a granular texture. It’s commonly served with fruit or cereal for breakfast, but you can also enjoy it in several other dishes.

Additionally, Cottage cheese is high in protein and calcium, and it is also low in calories.

You can either use it as a spread for your toast or as a topping with your favourite vegetables and herbs.

Fun fact: Cottage cheese is also known as pot cheese. This is because it was historically created by curdling milk in a pot over an open fire.

10. Colby

Colby cheese is quite well known in the United States. Though it appears to be similar to cheddar cheese, it has a mild, moist and a more elastic texture.

This cheese is quite versatile as it can be used in a variety of dishes. Whether you savor it on its own or add it in your favorite meals, it will never be a disappoint.

But did you know who invented this cheese? It was a cheese monger Joseph F. Steinwand from Colby, Wisconsin who first introduced this cheese in 1885.

11. Gouda

Gouda cheese is the cheese world’s mild-mannered Clark Kent. Its nutty, buttery flavor and slightly crumbly texture make it ideal for salads and sandwiches.

Gouda is generally aged for months to create a stronger flavor and a more complex texture.

It is named after the Dutch city of Gouda, where it was initially made in the 12th century. It soon gained popularity throughout Europe and is currently one of the world’s most popular cheeses.

12. Brie

Brie is the heart and soul of any party. It’s smooth, creamy texture and moderate flavor can instantly make you fall in love with the cheese. It is frequently served with crackers or toast, along with fruit or nuts which is sure to leave you impressed.

It was originally developed in France, specifically in Brie. Produced from cow milk, this cheese is aged for at least a month to create a flavorful taste.

Whether you’re looking for a casual snack or a fancy dinner, Brie is the perfect choice for any occasion.

13. Goat Cheese

Among the different kinds of cheese, Goat cheese is like a wild child. It has a tangy flavor and somewhat crumbly texture that makes it different from other types of cheese.

It makes for a delicious appetizer if you pair it with fruits and crackers. You can also add it in your salad for some extra flavor and creaminess.

14. Gruyère

Gruyère is known as the Swiss Army knife of cheeses. It is firm, flexible, and has a nutty, fruity flavor that complements a wide range of foods.

It is prepared from cow’s milk and aged for at least six months which renders a unique flavor and creamy texture.

Frequently used in fondue, Gruyère can also be melted over pastas and veggies, or added to your sandwiches and salads.

15. Mascarpone

Mascarpone is a creamy, smooth cheese created from cow’s milk. It has a rich, buttery flavor and is frequently used in treats like tiramisu and cheesecake.

Prepared from rich, high-calorie cream, Mascarpone provides a sumptuous touch to savory meals such as risotto and pasta.

Types of Cheese Chart

Cheese Name	Taste & Texture	Used In
Mozzarella	Milky flavor, soft and chewy texture	Pizzas and sandwiches
Parmesan	Nutty, savory flavor and hard, crumbly texture	Pasta, soup, salad, vegetable creams, etc.
Cheddar	Salty, buttery flavor and a semi-hard, crumbly texture	Burger, chips, popcorn, sandwiches, etc.
Swiss Cheese	Sweet, nutty flavor and a semi-hard texture	Fondue, sandwiches, cheese boards, salads, etc.
Ricotta	Sweet flavor and a grainy texture	Cheesecakes, stuffed pasta, cookies, etc.
Feta	Salty, tangy flavor and a slightly crumbly texture	Pizza, salads, casseroles pastries, etc.
Camembert	Earthy, sweet flavor and a soft creamy texture with a pungent smell	Crackers and breads with fruit and nut
Blue Cheese	Sharp, salty flavor and a creamy texture	Salads
Cottage Cheese	Mild-flavored and a granular texture	Toasts, cereals
Colby	Mild, buttery flavor and a slightly crumbly texture	Sandwiches, salads, cheese boards, etc.
Gouda	Nutty, buttery flavor with a crumbly texture	Salads, sandwiches, cheese boards, etc.
Brie	Moderate flavor and a smooth, creamy texture	Toasts, crackers
Goat Cheese	Tangy flavor and a crumbly texture	Salads, crackers, sandwiches, and other appetizers
Gruyère	Nutty, fruity flavor and a firm texture	Fondue, pasta, salads, etc.
Mascarpone	Buttery flavor and a creamy, smooth texture	Tiramisu, cheesecake

How to choose among the 15 different types of cheese

Choosing the right kind of cheese for your dish can become quite difficult if you’re not sure about the following:

Flavor

What flavor do you want to achieve? Do you like a soft and creamy cheese or one that is sharp and tangy? Cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Goat cheese are some of the types that you can consider.

Texture

Do you prefer a soft and creamy cheese or one that is firm and crumbly? Brie, Camembert, Gruyère, and feta are some famous cheeses to consider.

Melting power

Do you intend to melt the cheese in your dish? If this is the case, you’ll need a cheese that melts well. Mozzarella, cheddar, and Gruyère are some common cheeses to consider.

Meal

What kind of food are you preparing? Is it a pasta dish, a pizza, or a cheese board? In either of these dishes, Cheddar, Mozzarella, and Brie are some popular choices to consider.

Fun Facts About Cheese That You Never Knew

Over 2,000 distinct varieties of cheese are manufactured from cow, goat, sheep, and buffalo.
The Sumerians developed the first documented cheese recipe approximately 3,000 BC.
Pule, a Serbian donkey milk cheese, is the most costly cheese in the world, costing up to $600 a pound.
In 2016, Switzerland produced the world’s biggest cheese wheel, weighing over 26,000 pounds.
Cheese was previously used as a barter item.
Non-food item like soap, candles, and even musical instruments can be made from cheese.
Eating cheese before bedtime can improve your sleep.

Final Thoughts

The world of cheese is as varied as it is delightful, with something to suit every taste bud. There’s cheese for everyone and that there are 15 different types of cheese and the list continues. Whether you enjoy the sharpness of cheddar, the smoothness of Brie, or the pungency of Blue cheese, there is something for all of us.

Cheese is undoubtedly an important aspect of global cuisine, whether eaten alone, in a meal, or with wine and condiments. Knowing these 15 different types of cheese can come handy if you love adding cheese in your recipes.

FAQs

1. What makes cheddar different from mozzarella?

Cheddar is a strong, aged cheese with a sour flavor, whereas mozzarella is gentler and has a stretchy texture when melted. Cheddar cheese goes into sandwiches and as a topping, whereas mozzarella is a pizza staple.

2. Can lactose intolerant people eat cheese?

Many cheeses have little lactose content because the majority dies down during the manufacturing process. Lactose-intolerant people frequently prefer hard and aged cheeses such as cheddar, Parmesan, and Swiss.

3. What exactly is unripened cheese?

Unripened cheese, often known as fresh cheese, is a form of cheese that has isn’t aged a brief amount of time. It’s usually produced with fresh curd and has a mild, creamy, or crumbly texture.

4. What are some of the most popular meals that use unripened cheese?

Ricotta, cheesecakes, stuffed pasta, and queso fresco are all made using unripened cheese.

5. Can you freeze cheese for longevity?

While it is feasible to freeze cheese, the texture alters due to this activity. Hard cheeses freeze better than soft cheeses. Before freezing, wrap the cheese securely in plastic wrap and set it in an airtight container.