Did you know that Swiss is one of the most produced cheeses in Quebec? In Europe, the terms “Emmental” and “Gruyère” are protected designations, but not in Canada. In Quebec, they are sometimes called “Swiss” or “Emmental,” but they all belong to the Swiss cheese family. Does a recipe call for Gruyère? Think local and opt for a local Swiss or Emmental!
Two Quebec “Swiss” cheeses, both similar and different
At Fromagerie St-Guillaume, the production process for Swiss and Emmental is much the same. These are lactose-free, firm, pressed, cooked cheeses that have been ripened throughout. They are recognized by the round holes (eyes) distributed throughout the cheese. These holes are created by adding ripening cultures called propionic bacteria and appear during maturation.
These two cheeses have remarkable melting properties. That’s why they are the most commonly used cheeses in fondues, raclettes, soups, and sauces.
But how are they different?
You just have to taste them one after the other to understand. The cultures used in our Swiss and our Emmental are not the same, and that impacts the flavor of the cheeses!
St-Guillaume Swiss
On the nose, our Swiss cheese reveals a sweet scent of cooked milk. On the palate, this same intense lactic taste is noticeable, but it also features a slightly sweet flavor and gentle notes of almond and hazelnut. Whether you serve Swiss in thin slices for the best smoked meat, ham and cheese croissants, and grilled cheese, or in small wedges to accompany a fruity red wine, you will appreciate its exceptional taste.
St-Guillaume Emmental
Just like the Swiss, it gives off a scent of cooked milk. However, on the palate, its taste is more robust. It is distinguished by subtle aromas of root vegetables and a very light roast (heated milk, toasted almond) of a pleasant intensity. An excellent recipe enhancer, Emmental will add character to your dishes. Stir it into your mac and cheese, grilled paninis, and burgers, just to name a few ideas!
Light Swiss
Did you know that we also make a light Swiss containing 35% less fat than regular Swiss? Try Light Swiss in all your favorite dishes for a guilt-free version!
3-Cheese Fondue Mix
Made from a perfect combination of St-Guillaume Old Cheddar, Swiss, and Emmental—three lactose-free cheeses—our Fondue Mix offers a unique flavor to your fondues. The recipe for the fondue is on the back of the package, but you can also use this trio of shredded cheeses on your pizzas and gratins dauphinois. It’s yours to explore!
To your pots!
Here are a few recipes using Swiss or Emmental that you can find on our site.
 French Onion Soup au Gratin with St-Guillaume Swiss |  St-Guillaume Mac and Cheese with a Crispy Gratin |  Ham and St-Guillaume Swiss Quiche |
To access many other recipes, visit the following boards on Fromagerie St-Guillaume’s Pinterest account. And don’t forget! When a recipe calls for Gruyère, replace it with our Swiss or Emmental!
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