Taleggio cheese uses a multitude of molds to get its unique flavor and texture. It has a rough outer rind with a smoother and softer inside. The cheese features a slight hint of fruit and must ferment for 50 days.
While taleggio cheese is a wonderful option, there are many reasons why someone may be looking for a taleggio cheese substitute. Those who don’t eat dairy for allergy or personal reasons, want a cheaper option, or are merely looking for another dairy alternative, keep reading to learn about a taleggio alternative.
Recommended Substitutes For Taleggio Cheese
1. Fontina
The intense aromas from fontina makes it a perfect alternative to Taleggio. Fontina is creamy, similar to the inside of Taleggio.
Fontina is a popular addition in fondues and other meltable options, as it melts easily and quickly.
Fontina has small holes throughout and produces a slightly rougher texture and taste than Taleggio. If you want a similar taste and texture as Taleggio but prefer something more meltable, consider fontina. Having a meltable cheese allows for things like fondues and grilled cheeses to work well.
Not cheap; a one-pound block of fontina cheese will run you $23. Buying a high-quality cheese may run you a pretty penny, but you can be sure that it’s worth it.
2. Brie
Similar to fontina and Taleggio, brie is a strong-smelling cheese made from cow’s milk. Brie is easily spreadable, so it often works well as a spread on crackers or bread.
Brie is similar to Taleggio in that it has a rough exterior with a smooth and creamier inside.
Along with Taleggio, brie has a buttery taste when eaten. Brie is also made of a multitude of molds, making it an ideal substitute for taleggio cheese. It would be an excellent taleggio alternative if you like Taleggio’s taste but prefer something that can be more easily spread.
Slightly cheaper, but not by much, a pound of brie cheese will cost around $21, depending where you buy.
3. Havarti
Unlike Taleggio, Havarti cheese has no outside rind. The buttery tastes are found in Havarti as well. It’s known that Havarti is an all-around people-pleasing cheese. The mildness of it makes it a perfect option for almost all people as it doesn’t have any intense aromas, tastes, or looks.
If you like Taleggio but prefer a milder cheese, Havarti is an excellent option. The cheese is very smooth and is a perfect introduction to the world of cheese.
If the price is a concern, Havarti could be a suitable option. One pound comes in at slightly under $10 and will be sure to last a while. If an accurate but cheaper taleggio alternative is what you’re after, Havarti fits the bill. The versatility, simplistic nature, and less expensive price point make Havarti a desirable option.
4. Gruyere
The fruity hints in gruyere make it similar to Taleggio and the fact that it comes from cow’s milk. Gruyere tastes slightly saltier than other cheeses and is creamy. Gruyere is an easily meltable cheese that works well in many dishes.
Gruyere may have a strong smell, but the paleness and simplicity in color make it appealing to the eye. If you’re looking for a suitable taleggio substitute that may melt easier, gruyere is a reliable option.
While a suitable choice, it is not a cheaper one. Gruyere will run around $23 per pound.
5. Robiola
Robiola is made from cow’s milk though it may also include goat or sheep’s milk. There is no outside rind on a robiola cheese, and the inside is a creamy white color. The cheese is easily spreadable and works well on bread, crackers, or others.
Robiola tastes creamy and light and should be used either in recipes or as a spread. If you prefer a looser, more delicate cheese, consider robiola to substitute for taleggio cheese.
Another hefty spend, robiola, costs around $28 per pound.
Final Thoughts
When looking for suitable taleggio alternatives, there are a few things to keep in mind. Price, content, and purpose being the main three.
It’s important to remember that fancy cheeses like these will not always be cheap. If you’re experimenting with new cheeses for the first time, consider buying a smaller amount to find if you like it or not.
Next, content. It’s crucial to figure out whether you’re looking for a taleggio substitute that contains dairy or a dairy-free option. From there, you may figure out what type of alternative is best.
Lastly, the purpose is a vital factor. If you prefer a fondue, then you’d like a meltier cheese, for example. Once you’ve figured out your main three, start trying taleggio substitutes and find your new favorite!
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