13 Best Substitutes for Emmental Cheese

Emmental cheese is a versatile and satisfying cheese that adds a unique flavor to various dishes. However, there may be times when you run out of Emmental cheese or need a suitable substitute.

In this article, we will explore some excellent alternatives to Emmental cheese that will help you maintain the deliciousness of your recipes.

Whether you’re lactose intolerant, looking for different flavor profiles, or want to experiment with new cheeses, these substitutes will meet your culinary needs.

What is Emmental Cheese?

Emmental cheese, also known as Swiss cheese or Emmentaler, is a renowned cheese originating from Emmental, Switzerland. Its distinct flavor and large holes make it a favorite choice for many cheese lovers. 

Emmental cheese is a yellow, medium-hard cheese with a rich, nutty flavor. It is traditionally made from unpasteurized cow’s milk and has a distinctive appearance due to its large, asymmetrical holes. Emmental cheese is named after the Emmental region in Switzerland, which has been produced since the 15th century.

However, suppose you’re unable to find Emmental cheese or prefer alternatives. In that case, there are numerous substitutes available that offer similar qualities and flavors.

Gruyere

Gruyere cheese, hailing from Switzerland, is an excellent substitute for Emmental. It shares many similarities in flavor, texture, and melting properties. Gruyere has a slightly stronger and earthier taste, making it an ideal choice for savory dishes like fondue, quiches, and gratins.

French Comte

French Comte cheese is another suitable substitute for Emmental. It has a similar nutty flavor and a smooth, creamy texture. French Comte works well in sandwiches, soups, and baked dishes, offering a delightful taste experience.

Jarlsberg

Jarlsberg, a Norwegian cheese, is often compared to Emmental due to its sweet and nutty taste. It has smaller holes and a slightly milder flavor, making it a versatile substitute for Emmental in sandwiches, salads, and casseroles.

Raclette

Raclette cheese, originating from Switzerland, is an excellent melting cheese and a suitable alternative to Emmental. It has a rich, creamy texture and a slightly fruity taste. Raclette works wonders when melted on potatoes, vegetables or as a topping for grilled meats.

Fontina

Fontina cheese, originating from Italy, is a semi-soft cheese that can be a great substitute for Emmental. It has a mild, nutty flavor with a hint of earthiness. Fontina melts beautifully, making it an excellent choice for fondues, sandwiches, and pasta dishes like macaroni and cheese.

Gouda

Gouda cheese, originally from the Netherlands, is a versatile cheese that can be used as a substitute for Emmental. It has a smooth and creamy texture with a slightly sweet and nutty taste. Gouda is delicious when melted, making it suitable for sandwiches, burgers, and even pizzas.

Brie

Brie, a French cheese known for its soft and creamy texture, can be an interesting alternative to Emmental. Although it has a different flavor profile, Brie offers a rich and buttery taste that complements many dishes. It works well in sandwiches, baked goods, and a cheese plate option.

Cheddar

Cheddar cheese, widely popular and readily available, can be a convenient substitute for Emmental. It has a sharp and tangy flavor that adds depth to various recipes. Cheddar melts beautifully and is commonly used in dishes like grilled cheese sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, and casseroles.

Havarti

Havarti cheese, originating from Denmark, is a creamy, buttery cheese that can be used as an alternative to Emmental. It has a mild and slightly tangy taste, making it versatile for savory and sweet dishes. Havarti melts well and is a great addition to sandwiches, burgers, and cheese platters.

Provolone

Provolone cheese, hailing from Italy, is a semi-hard cheese that can be a suitable substitute for Emmental. It has a mild and slightly smoky flavor with a smooth and creamy texture. Provolone melts beautifully, making it ideal for sandwiches, pizzas, and baked pasta dishes.

Mozzarella

Mozzarella cheese, famous for its stretchy and gooey texture, can also be an alternative to Emmental. While it has a milder flavor, Mozzarella adds a delightful creaminess to dishes. It is commonly used in pizzas, lasagnas, and caprese salads.

Parmesan

Parmesan cheese, originating from Italy, is a hard and granular cheese that can be used as a substitute for Emmental in certain dishes. While Parmesan has a distinct flavor, it adds a savory and salty taste to recipes. It is a topping for pasta, salads, and risotto.

Swiss Cheese

Swiss cheese, also known as baby Swiss or Swiss Emmental, is a close relative of Emmental cheese and can be an excellent substitute. It has a similar flavor profile with a nutty and slightly sweet taste. Swiss cheese melts well, making it suitable for sandwiches, quiches, and casseroles.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a similar taste, melting properties, or texture, these cheese alternatives to Emmental offer a range of options to suit your needs. Experiment with these substitutes in your favorite recipes and discover new flavor combinations!