Cheese enthusiasts, gather around! Today, we embark on a delectable journey to explore the 10 best substitutes to the renowned Gruyère cheese. Whether you’re an avid cheese lover or simply seeking a substitute due to availability or dietary preferences, this guide will introduce you to some mouthwatering options that will satisfy your cravings and elevate your culinary creations.
SEE ALSO: Why Gruyère is Switzerland’s most famous cheese →
What is Gruyère Cheese?
Originating from Switzerland, Gruyère cheese boasts a rich heritage dating back centuries. Crafted from cow’s milk and aged for several months, this pressed cooked cheese presents a delightful combination of flavours.
Its nutty undertones intertwine with subtle hints of fruitiness, resulting in a harmonious taste that lingers on your palate. You can read more about the spectacular Gruyère flavour wheel in our post here.
Gruyère cheese shines when melted, making it a perfect choice for fondues and gratins. Moreover, it pairs exceptionally well with crusty bread, cured meats, and robust wines.
Need an alternative to Gruyère?
While Gruyère cheese is undeniably exquisite, there may be occasions when a substitute becomes necessary. Perhaps you’re hosting a cheese tasting event and want to showcase a variety of flavours, or maybe you’re simply looking to experiment with new tastes.
Whatever the reason, exploring alternatives can expand your cheese repertoire and open doors to exciting culinary experiences.
10 best substitutes for Gruyère
Now, let’s delve into the tantalising world of our top 10 alternatives to Gruyère cheese.
1. Comté
Originating from the Franche-Comté region of France, Comté cheese exudes a unique complexity of flavours. Its nutty and caramel undertones, combined with a silky texture, make it an excellent substitute for Gruyère. Whether grated over dishes or enjoyed on its own, Comté cheese never fails to impress.
2. Beaufort
Hailing from the French Alps, Beaufort cheese enchants with its robust and savoury character. Its firm texture and slightly fruity notes make it an ideal Gruyère substitute for fondue, gratins, or adding a touch of sophistication to cheeseboards.
3. Emmentaler
Known for its distinctive holes, Emmentaler cheese originates from Switzerland and possesses a mild and buttery taste. The creamy texture and excellent melting properties of Emmentaler make it a popular choice for fondue and sandwiches. It also pairs wonderfully with fruits and crusty bread.
4. Appenzeller
Taking centre stage in the Swiss cheese scene, Appenzeller cheese offers a bold and complex flavour profile. The cheese’s spicy notes and herbaceous aroma make it an excellent replacement for Gruyère in recipes that require a touch of zing. Enjoy it on a cheese platter with dried fruits or in a comforting sandwich.
5. Raclette
Also from the French and Swiss Alps, Raclette cheese is famed for its superb melting capabilities. With a smooth and creamy texture, it adds a delightful richness to dishes. Melt it over potatoes, vegetables, or even charcuterie for a heavenly cheesy experience.
6. Fontina
Originating from Italy’s Aosta Valley, Fontina cheese offers a delicate, nutty taste with hints of earthiness. Its supple texture makes it perfect for melting, grilling, or adding a touch of elegance to pasta dishes. Pair Fontina cheese with cured meats, olives, or fruity preserves for a delightful cheeseboard.
7. Cantal
Made in the French Auvergne region, Cantal cheese delivers a robust and full-bodied flavour. With its crumbly texture and hints of grassiness, it provides a satisfying alternative to Gruyère. Enjoy it in sandwiches, gratins, or on a local cheese platter.
8. Jarlsberg
Originating from Norway, Jarlsberg cheese features a mild and nutty taste, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a milder alternative to Gruyère. Its semi-soft texture and ability to melt smoothly make it perfect for sandwiches, quiches and even pizza toppings.
9. Tête de Moine
Back to Switzerland and we find Tête de Moine. This unique monastic cheese surprises with its exceptional flavour and presentation. The cheese is traditionally scraped into rosettes using a special knife, allowing its nutty and fruity notes to unfold. Pair it with fresh fruits, crackers, or even chocolate for a unique cheese experience.
10. L’Etivaz
Finally, we cannot overlook the traditional L’Etivaz as a worthy alternative to Gruyère.
Crafted in the Swiss Alps during summer months, L’Etivaz is a firm and smooth cheese with nutty, fruity flavours, hints of caramel, and a delicate floral aroma. It melts beautifully and is best enjoyed on a cheese platter with bread and fruits or melted in dishes like gratins.
Summary
As devoted cheese lovers, the quest for substitutes for Gruyère cheese has led us to discover an array of tantalising options. From the nuttiness of Comté cheese to the spicy hit of Appenzeller, each substitute offers a distinct character and opens doors to culinary creativity.
Whether you’re melting, grating, or enjoying them in their natural form, these alternatives are sure to satisfy your cheese cravings and elevate your culinary endeavours. So go forth, explore, and let your taste buds revel in the glorious world of cheese!
Did your favourite make it onto our list? Let us know in the comments below.
Jonah is a a hipster, eco-warrior and slow food afficionado. Coming from a scientific background, Jonah has a particular interest in cheese science. And yes, he loves a good cheese pun!
