There are actually over a thousand cheese varieties around the world. So, how many types have you tried? Do you know which ones are the most popular?

The top 5 most popular cheeses in the world are:

• Cheddar
• Mozzarella
• Brie
• Parmesan
• Feta

Keep reading to discover more about these cheeses, including how they’re made, their flavors, textures, and what makes them so popular worldwide.

Mozzarella

In traditional mozzarella making, cheesemakers use standardized and pasteurized milk. First, they culture and coagulate the milk, then cut and cook it. After draining the whey, they form the curd as acidity develops. Next, they mill the curd before moving it to the cooker.

Mozzarella – Taste and Texture

Mozzarella has two main categories: fresh mozzarella and low-moisture mozzarella. Let’s briefly discuss both.

Fresh Mozzarella

There are several types of fresh mozzarella. These include Fiore di Latte, Bufala Mozzarella, Stracciatella, and Burrata.

Fiore di Latte

This is the typical fresh mozzarella found in grocery stores. Essentially, all fresh mozzarella is considered Fiore di Latte unless specified otherwise.

Bufala Mozzarella

Made from the milk of water buffalo raised in Italy, it has twice the fat content of regular Fiore di Latte, resulting in an incredibly creamy, smooth texture.

Stracciatella

Made by mixing cream with shreds and scraps left over from making mozzarella. It’s great for spreading on crostini or fresh-out-of-the-oven pizza.

Burrata

Burrata means “buttery” in Italian. It’s made by filling a skin of fiore di latte with stracciatella. If you want an easy but impressive appetizer, burrata is perfect on its own. But it’s also great in panzanella or pasta. Truly, burrata can make any meal special.

Low-moisture Mozzarella

Compared to fresh mozzarella, low-moisture mozzarella is denser and drier in texture and saltier in taste. When melted, it can be evenly poured on a dish which makes it ideal for pizza.

Let’s take a look at the 2 types of low-moisture mozzarella: shredded mozzarella and string cheese.

Shredded Mozzarella

You’ve probably tried this type of mozzarella. It usually comes in a bag and is often bought from grocery stores for making pizzas. It has a mild taste and is known for its excellent melting ability.

String Cheese

This stretchy and delectable cheese is the most ideal example of low-moisture mozzarella, and the ideal ingredient for making cheese sticks.

Brie

Making brie starts with either pasteurized or raw cow’s milk. Cheesemakers add enzymes and rennet to make the milk coagulate and form curds. A yeast culture is then added to encourage the growth of the white mold. After the curds form, they’re cut, put into molds, and any extra liquid, or whey, is drained away.

Brie – Taste and Texture

Just like other cheeses, brie comes in several varieties, each with its own unique flavor. Whether you prefer creamy and mild or rich and complex, there’s a brie for every cheese lover to enjoy.

Among the many brie varieties, the favorites include the traditional, organic, and truffle.

Traditional Brie

As its name implies, this brie variant undergoes traditional method. Its aging process takes a few weeks to achieve its rich, buttery, and subtle taste.

Organic Brie

Since it’s organic, it’s not only delicious but also produced in accordance with ethical and sustainable farming practices. This process indeed highlights the natural qualities of the milk.

Truffle Brie

There’s no denying that truffle brie offers the ultimate brie experience. Recognized as one of the best brie varieties, this brie infused with truffle oil or real truffle is truly a luxurious option.

Parmesan

Parmesan cheese is made from cow’s milk and aged for at least 12 months. They mix whole milk and skimmed milk, then heat it in copper vats. During heating, they add whey and rennet to form the curd.

Parmesan – Taste and Texture

There are several types of Parmesan cheese, each with unique characteristics. Some of the main varieties are Parmigiano-Reggiano, Grana Padano, and American Parmesan.

Parmigiano-Reggiano

This is the most famous type, produced in specific regions of Italy. It has a granular texture and a rich, nutty taste.

Grana Padano

This is typically similar to Parmigiano-Reggiano but is made in a larger area of Italy.Typically aged for a shorter period, this parmesan variety has a milder flavor.

American Parmesan

Produced in the United States, it is usually not aged as long as its Italian counterparts and often has a milder taste.

Feta

Traditionally, feta cheese is made from 100% sheep’s milk or a blend with up to 30% goat’s milk. The cheesemaker adds rennet to thicken the milk into curds, which are then separated from the whey and pressed into molds to drain off excess moisture.

Feta – Taste and Texture

There are so many feta varieties worldwide, let’s focus on the 3 most popular: Greek, Bulgarian, and French Feta.

Greek Feta

This is the most well-known type, traditionally made from sheep’s milk or a blend of sheep’s and goat’s milk. It has a tangy flavor and crumbly texture, perfect for salads and Mediterranean dishes.

Bulgarian Feta

Known for its creamier texture compared to Greek feta, Bulgarian feta is made primarily from sheep’s milk and sometimes includes goat’s milk. It has a slightly milder flavor and is often used in cooking and as a table cheese.

French Feta

Made with cow’s milk or a combination of cow’s and goat’s milk, French feta tends to be softer and less tangy than its Mediterranean counterparts. It has a smoother texture and is often enjoyed in salads, pastries, and other French cuisine.

Conclusion – 5 Most Popular Cheeses In The World: Cheddar, Mozzarella, Brie, Parmesan, Feta

To conclude, these cheeses are popular worldwide for several reasons.

Cheddar is known for its sharp and tangy flavor. It’s versatile and widely used in cooking, sandwiches, and as a snack. Its popularity is also due to its ability to age well and develop complex flavors.

Mozzarella is loved for its mild taste and stretchy texture when melted. It’s essential in Italian cuisine, especially for pizzas and pasta dishes. It’s also used in salads and sandwiches globally.

Brie is appreciated for its creamy texture and delicate flavor. It’s a staple in French cuisine and beloved for its versatility. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with fruits, bread, and wine.

Parmesan is renowned for its rich, nutty taste and granular texture. It adds depth to pasta dishes, soups, and salads. It’s aged for a long time to develop its distinctive flavor, making it a favorite in Italian and international cuisine.

Feta is known for its tangy and salty taste. It’s widely used in Mediterranean cuisine, including Greek salads, pastries, and dips. Its crumbly texture and distinct flavor make it a popular choice globally.

These cheeses have become popular worldwide due to their unique flavors, versatility in cooking, and cultural significance in various cuisines.