Bleu Cheese vs. Gorgonzola — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on October 31, 2023
Bleu Cheese is a general category of mold-ripened cheeses; Gorgonzola is a specific type of Italian blue cheese.
Difference Between Bleu Cheese and Gorgonzola
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Bleu Cheese represents a broad family of cheeses characterized by the presence of blue, green, or gray molds. These molds are intentionally introduced, giving the cheese its distinct flavor and appearance. On the contrary, Gorgonzola is a particular type of blue cheese originating from Italy. Its unique taste and creaminess are derived from specific mold strains, and it's aged for varying durations to achieve different textures.
While all Gorgonzolas are blue cheeses, not all blue cheeses are Gorgonzolas. The category of Bleu Cheese encompasses many types, including Roquefort, Stilton, and of course, Gorgonzola. Gorgonzola itself has two main variants: Gorgonzola Dolce (soft) and Gorgonzola Piccante (firm).
One of the distinguishing features of Bleu Cheese is its pungent aroma and strong flavor, a result of the mold. Gorgonzola, being a subset of blue cheeses, also has these characteristics but might vary in intensity depending on its aging. Both Bleu Cheese and Gorgonzola make for excellent additions to salads, pizzas, and even melt well in sauces.
To summarize, Bleu Cheese is an overarching term for cheeses with blue mold, while Gorgonzola is a cheese under this category, distinctively Italian, with its unique characteristics and flavor profiles.
Comparison Chart
Origin
General term, various origins
Italy
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Types
Includes Roquefort, Stilton, Gorgonzola, etc.
Mainly Gorgonzola Dolce and Gorgonzola Piccante
Texture
Varies based on type
Dolce is softer, Piccante is firmer
Specificity
Broad category
Specific cheese within the blue cheese family
Use in Cuisine
Salads, toppings, dressings, etc.
Salads, pizzas, pastas, sauces, etc.
Compare with Definitions
Bleu Cheese
Broad category of mold-ripened cheeses.
Among the Bleu Cheese varieties, Roquefort is her favorite.
Gorgonzola
An Italian blue cheese variety.
Gorgonzola is perfect for creamy pasta sauces.
Bleu Cheese
Cheese with blue or green mold veins.
Bleu Cheese adds a tangy flavor to salads.
Gorgonzola
Creamy texture with blue mold patterns.
He loves the rich creaminess of Gorgonzola.
Bleu Cheese
Features distinct mold patterns.
You can see the blue veins clearly in this Bleu Cheese.
Gorgonzola
Has a unique tangy flavor profile.
This Gorgonzola adds a unique twist to the cheeseboard.
Bleu Cheese
Often creamy with a sharp taste.
She spread the Bleu Cheese on her baguette.
Gorgonzola
Comes in Dolce (soft) and Piccante (firm) types.
The Gorgonzola Dolce melted beautifully over the pizza.
Bleu Cheese
Known for its strong aroma and flavor.
The Bleu Cheese crumbles were a bold topping on the steak.
Gorgonzola
Originates from the town of Gorgonzola in Italy.
When in Italy, she visited Gorgonzola to taste the authentic cheese.
Gorgonzola
A pungent, blue-veined Italian cheese with a soft, crumbly texture, made of cow's milk.
Gorgonzola
A blue-veined Italian cheese, made from cow's milk.
Gorgonzola
A kind of Italian pressed milk cheese; - so called from a village near Milan.
Gorgonzola
Italian blue cheese
Common Curiosities
Are there different types of Gorgonzola?
Yes, mainly Gorgonzola Dolce (soft) and Gorgonzola Piccante (firm).
What gives Gorgonzola its distinct flavor?
Specific mold strains and the aging process contribute to its unique taste.
Is the mold in Bleu Cheese safe to eat?
Yes, the mold in Bleu Cheese is intentionally introduced and is safe for consumption.
What is Bleu Cheese?
Bleu Cheese is a category of cheeses characterized by blue, green, or gray mold veins.
How does Gorgonzola compare to Roquefort?
Both are blue cheeses, but Gorgonzola is Italian while Roquefort is French, and each has a distinct flavor profile.
Can I use Gorgonzola as a substitute for other blue cheeses?
While they have similar flavor profiles, the specific taste might vary, so it depends on the dish.
Is Gorgonzola a type of Bleu Cheese?
Yes, Gorgonzola is a specific type of Italian blue cheese.
Why does Bleu Cheese have a strong smell?
The pungent aroma is a result of the mold and the aging process.
Which dishes typically use Bleu Cheese?
Salads, dressings, toppings on steaks, and many more.
Is Bleu Cheese always made from cow's milk?
No, while many are, some like Roquefort are made from sheep's milk.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
