The 5 Best Substitutes for Fontina Cheese

Aged for at least three months, Fontina cheese is a nutty and creamy Italian favorite.

But where does this cheese come from, and what makes it unique? Fontina cheese is delicious, but it also has a long and exciting history.

Fontina has a nutty, creamy flavor that pairs well with various foods.

It’s also versatile enough to be used in both cooked and uncooked dishes.

The only downside to Fontina cheese is that it can be hard to find and relatively expensive.

If you’re looking for a Fontina cheese substitute, several options are available.

Keep on reading for the five best substitutes for Fontina cheese.

What is Fontina Cheese?

Originating in the Val d’Aosta region of Italy, Fontina cheese is a traditional Italian cheese that has been made for centuries.

Fontina comes from the Latin word ‘fontanus,’ meaning ‘fountain,’ referring to the bountiful water sources in the Val d’Aosta region.

The cheese is made from cow’s milk and has a natural reddish-brown rind.

The cheese’s interior is pale yellow and has a slightly nutty flavor.

Fontina cheese is most commonly used in dishes such as fondue and gratins, where its strong flavor pairs well with other ingredients.

It is also often used as a pizza topping, as the cheese’s high-fat content helps prevent it from drying out during cooking.

Fontina cheese is a popular choice for home cooks and professional chefs alike, thanks to its versatile flavor and texture.

The 5 Best Substitutes for Fontina Cheese

Not only is fontina cheese a delicious addition to your favorite recipes, but it’s also relatively easy to find.

However, there are times when you may not be able to find this cheese, or you may want to try something new.

If that’s the case, don’t worry – there are plenty of substitutes for fontina cheese that will work just as well in your dish.

Here are 5 of the best substitutes for fontina cheese:

1 – Gruyere Cheese

Gruyere cheese is a type of unpasteurized cow’s milk cheese that originates from the Swiss canton of Fribourg.

It has a creamy texture and a nutty, slightly sweet flavor.

The cheese is aged for a minimum of five months, and during this time, it develops a crumbly yet smooth texture.

Gruyere cheese is often used in gratins and fondues and classic dishes such as croque-monsieur and chicken cordon bleu.

It can also be enjoyed on its own, either melted on bread or eaten with a crusty baguette.

2 – Gouda Cheese

Gouda cheese is a type of Dutch cheese named after the city of Gouda in the Netherlands.

It is a medium-hard cheese with a yellowish-orange rind and a creamy, yellow interior.

Gouda cheese has a sweet, nutty flavor that becomes more intense as the cheese ages.

It is often used in grilled cheese sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, and topping for crackers and bread.

Gouda cheese can also be melted and used as a dip or sauce.

3 – ‎Munster Cheese

Munster cheese is a type of cheese that originated in the Alsace region of France.

Munster cheese is made from cow’s milk and has a strong, pungent flavor.

The cheese is often used in dishes such as gratins and gratinees, and it can also be eaten on its own.

Munster cheese is named after the Munchner region of Germany, where the cheese was first introduced.

Munster cheese is typically sold in round, 8-ounce balls.

The rind of the cheese is natural and should be left on when eating.

Munster cheese should be stored in a cool, dry place and consumed within two weeks of opening.

4 – ‎Feta Cheese

Feta is a delicious, salty cheese that originated in Greece.

It is typically made from sheep’s milk, but goat’s milk can also be used.

Feta is high in fat and protein, making it a nutritious food choice.

It is also a versatile cheese used in many different dishes.

For example, it is often crumbled over salads or used as a filling for pies and pastries.

Feta can also incorporate into main dishes, such as spanakopita (a spinach and feta pie) or moussaka (an eggplant and lamb casserole).

No matter how it is used, feta cheese always adds a rich, flavorful touch to any dish.

5 – ‎Provolone Cheese

Provolone cheese is a type of Italian cheese made from cow’s milk.

It is a hard cheese that has a sharp, tangy flavor.

Provolone is a versatile cheese that can be used in various dishes, from sandwiches to pasta dishes.

It is also a popular pizza topping.

Provolone cheese is made by pressing milk curds together and then aging them for several months.

The longer the cheese is aged, the sharper the flavor will be.

Provolone cheese originated in Italy, but it is now produced in other parts, such as the United States.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Fontina cheese is a versatile and delicious cheese that can be used in various dishes.

However, it can be challenging to find in stores, and it can be expensive.

Thankfully, several excellent substitutes can be used in its place.

So next time you’re looking for a substitute for Fontina cheese, be sure to give one of these other great options.