Emmental
A hard cow’s milk cheese from Switzerland’s Emme Valley, known for the characteristic large holes that form as it ripens. It has a mildly sweet, nutty aroma.
What Is Emmental?
Emmental is a hard cheese made from cow’s milk and named after Switzerland’s Emme Valley. During ripening, carbon dioxide gas produced by Propionibacterium bacteria creates the characteristic large holes inside the cheese.
It has a mildly sweet, slightly nutty aroma; it is also generally known as Swiss cheese, although Emmental is the original and best-known representative of this group.
Emmental Nutrition Facts
Emmental is a nutrient-dense hard cheese that contains about 380 kcal of energy, 27 g of protein, and 27.8 g of fat per 100 g. It is also quite rich in calcium.
What Are the Benefits of Emmental?
With its high protein and calcium content, it can be included as part of a balanced diet.
This is general information; Emmental is a food, not a medical treatment.
How to Choose Emmental
When buying Emmental, pay attention to the even distribution of the holes and the natural color of its rind.
- The holes should be medium to large and evenly spaced.
- The color should be pale cream-yellow; an overly deep yellow may indicate that it is overripe.
- Varieties aged for a long time (12+ months) have a more pronounced flavor.
How to Store Emmental
Emmental can be stored in the refrigerator for 3–4 weeks, with the cut surface wrapped in waxed paper or cheese paper. Wrapping it directly in airtight plastic wrap can negatively affect its flavor.
Using Emmental in Cooking
Emmental is used in sandwiches, gratins, omelets, and especially Swiss cheese fondue. Its good melting quality makes it a popular choice for hot dishes.
How to Make Swiss Cheese Fondue
Grated Emmental and Gruyère are melted with white wine over low heat, stirring constantly; serve the mixture once it reaches a smooth consistency with bread cubes.
What Recipes Use Emmental?
Swiss cheese fondue, Emmental sandwiches, and Emmental gratin are among its best-known uses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Emmental have holes?
Carbon dioxide gas produced by bacteria in the cheese during ripening forms bubbles in the cheese mass, creating its characteristic holes.
What is the difference between Emmental and Gruyère?
Both are hard cheeses from Switzerland; Emmental has larger holes and a mildly sweet flavor, while Gruyère has no holes or very few and a more intense, saltier taste.
Does Emmental melt well?
Yes. It is often chosen for melted dishes such as fondue and gratins; it melts smoothly and fluidly.
Can Emmental be frozen?
It can be frozen, but its texture may become somewhat crumbly; for the best results, freezing it grated is recommended.
How can you tell if Emmental is authentic?
Packaging that identifies the cheese as Emmental or Emmentaler and indicates Swiss origin can help distinguish the authentic product from generic Swiss cheese products.