Tomme

What Is Tomme?

Tomme is a semi-hard cow’s milk cheese made primarily in the French Alps, especially the Savoie region, with a natural gray-brown rind. Different regional varieties of Tomme cheese are made under the same name.

The interior is ivory to pale yellow, elastic, and has few holes; its flavor is earthy, nutty, and mild yet full. It is often made from reduced-fat milk, so it is lighter than many hard cheeses.

Tomme Nutrition Facts

Like other semi-hard cow’s milk cheeses, Tomme provides about 340 kcal of energy per 100 grams, along with high amounts of protein and fat; it is rich in calcium. The values are approximate, based on a similar cheese profile.

What Are the Benefits of Tomme?

With its high-quality protein and calcium, Tomme can be considered part of a balanced diet; moderation is recommended because of its fat and salt content.

This is general information; Tomme is a food, not a medical treatment.

How to Choose Tomme

Good Tomme has a dry gray rind and an elastic, moist-looking interior. Its aroma should be pleasant, earthy, and mushroom-like; the inside should not be cracked or completely dry.

• The rind should be dry and gray, and the interior elastic and moist.
• The aroma should be pleasant and earthy.
• The interior should not be completely dry or cracked.

How to Store Tomme

Store Tomme in the refrigerator’s vegetable drawer with the rind on, wrapped in breathable cheese paper. Wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap can smother the rind; keep it slightly moist.

Using Tomme in the Kitchen

Tomme is eaten as a table cheese and is also used in gratins, tartiflette-style potato dishes, and sandwiches. It melts well, so it is also used in hot dishes.

Can You Eat the Rind of Tomme?

The natural gray rind is traditionally edible; however, its strong earthy flavor may not suit everyone, so it can be cut off if preferred.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of milk is Tomme made from?

Classic Tomme de Savoie is made from cow’s milk; Tomme varieties from other regions may also be made from goat’s or sheep’s milk.

What does Tomme taste like?

It has an earthy, nutty, mild yet full flavor; the rind adds a subtle mushroom-like depth.

Does Tomme melt?

Yes. Its semi-hard texture melts well with heat, so it is used in gratins and hot potato dishes.