Have you ever been in the center of preparing a meal when you realized you were missing an ingredient? Maybe you forgot to buy Pecorino cheese, or maybe you just don’t have any on hand. This can be frustrating.
Plenty of substitutes for Pecorino cheese can give your dish the same flavor profile.
But there’s nothing to worry about as different vegan as well as non-vegan substitutes are available and can be used.
I’ll definitely share some of my favorites. Keep reading to explore!
What is Pecorino Cheese? What does Pecorino cheese taste like? What is pecorino cheese made from?
Pecorino cheese is a kind of Italian cheese that is made from sheep’s milk. It has a strong, sharp nutty, salty flavor and is often used as a grating cheese.
The name “Pecora” means “sheep” in Italian, so this cheese gets its name from the fact that it is made from sheep’s milk. The flavor of pecorino cheese can vary depending on how long it is aged.
Pecorino cheese is delicious and pairs well with a variety of dishes, often used in dishes like pasta or pizza.
Younger Pecorino cheeses will have a milder flavor, while older cheeses will be more pungent. Pecorino cheese pairs well with fruit, nuts, and wine. It can also be utilized in cooking to add flavor to dishes.
What can you use instead of Pecorino cheese?
You can use certain substitutes like Parmigiano Reggiano, Grana Padano, Asiago cheese, Kefalotyri, Calcagno, Romano, Spanish Manchego, Iberico Cheese, Ossaulraty, Piave, Cheddar, Mozzarella Nutritional yeast, Tofu, Cashew cheese etc. instead of Pecorino cheese.
Best Substitute for Pecorino cheese
1. Parmigiano Reggiano- Perfect Substitute for Pecorino
Parmigiano Reggiano is basically a hard, granular cheese also known as Parmesan that is produced from skimmed or partially skimmed cow’s milk. The cheese has a straw-yellow color and a strong, piquant flavor.
It is used in grating or shaving over pasta dishes, as well as in salads and sauces. Parmigiano Reggiano has a crumbly texture and a nutty taste. It is also a good melting cheese, making it ideal for use in gratins and other baked dishes.
Parmigiano Reggiano can be used in place of Pecorino cheese in any dish, and the two kinds of cheese are often interchangeable in recipes.
While the flavors of the two kinds of cheese are similar, Parmigiano Reggiano is generally more expensive than Pecorino cheese.
2. You can try Grana Padano instead of Pecorino
The Pecorino cheese can be replaced with Grana Padano cheese which is a hard, crumbly cheese that is similar to Parmesan. It has a nutty flavor and pairs nicely with pasta and vegetables.
Grana Padano is a hard, granular cheese that is made from skimmed or partially skimmed cow’s milk. The milk is first warmed and then mixed with rennet and enzymes. This mixture is then left to curdle for several hours.
Grana Padano has a pale-yellow color and a slightly crumbly texture. It contains a nutty flavor with hints of sweetness. Grana Padano can be used in a variety of dishes, such as grated over pasta or risotto, in salads, or as a snack.
After the curdling process is complete, the whey is removed, and the curd is cooked until it forms a solid mass. Once the cooking process is finished, the cheese is placed in molds, where it will drain and form into its final shape.
It is also a famous ingredient in many Italian recipes.
If you cannot find Grana Padano cheese, you can use Parmesan or another hard.
3. Asiago cheese– suitable alternative to pecorino cheese
Asiago cheese is a type of cheese that originated in the northern Italian region of Asiago. It is made from cow’s milk and has a firm texture with a slightly crumbly consistency.
Asiago cheese is a milder, softer cheese that can be used as a pecorino cheese alternative in many recipes. Asiago has a buttery flavor with hints of nuttiness.
If you are looking for less pungent cheese to use in your cooking, Asiago may be a good choice.
The taste of Asiago cheese is similar to that of Parmesan, with a slightly nutty flavor. This cheese can be utilized in a variety of dishes, such as grating over pasta or using in place of Parmesan in recipes.
Asiago cheese is also excellent for melting and using in sauces or on top of pizzas. If you ask me my choice, I will suggest Asiago cheese for sure.
4. Kefalotyri one of the best substitutes for Pecorino cheese
Kefalotyri cheese is a Greek variety of hard cheese made from sheep’s milk. It has a sharp, salty, tangy flavor and a firm texture. It is generally used as a replacement for Pecorino cheese in recipes.
Kefalotyri cheese can be found in most Greek supermarkets. If you don’t like the sweet taste, this is a must-try.
It can be used in dishes such as spanakopita and tyropita.
5. Calcagno (cheese), another good substitute for Pecorino Cheese in lagasna
Calcagno cheese is a type of Italian chees; softer, milder is made from cow’s milk, sheep’s milk, or goat’s milk. It has a white color and a smooth texture.
It is often used in dishes such as lasagna and spaghetti. Calcagno cheese has a mild taste that is slightly sweet.
It has a sweeter flavor than Pecorino and can be used as a table cheese or for cooking.
When substituting Calcagno cheese for Pecorino, you may want to add a little extra salt to your dish to compensate for the milder flavor of the Calcagno.
6. Romano cheese- Good Pecorino Cheese Substitute
Romano cheese is a type of Italian cheese, hard and salty, that is made from sheep’s milk and cow’s milk. Substituting Romano cheese for Pecorino cheese will result in a milder flavored dish.
It has a sharp, nutty flavor and a crumbly texture. Romano cheese is often used in grating recipes, such as Caesar salads or pasta dishes. It can also be melted and used as a topping on pizzas or other hot dishes.
7. Spanish Manchego – Excellent Pecorino Substitute
Add the Manchego cheese to the pasta and stir until it is evenly distributed to enjoy the excellent taste and serve immediately.
In a little bowl, combine the garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Place the Manchego cheese on a large plate or cutting board. Using a sharp knife, shave the cheese into thin slices.
Arrange the cheese slices on a platter. Drizzle with the garlic lemon sauce and serve immediately.
Read More- Ideal Substitutes for Gruyere Cheese
8. Try Iberico cheese Instead of Pecorino Cheese
If you’re looking for a substitution for Pecorino cheese, try Iberico cheese. Iberico cheese is a type of cheese made from the milk of Iberian pigs.
If you can’t find Iberico, Manchego, a sheep’s milk cheese from Spain, makes a good substitute.
Iberico cheese has a creamy texture and a mild, nutty taste. Iberico cheese is often used in Spanish dishes such as tortillas and paella.
9. OssauIraty cheese- Milder Pecorino Cheese Replacement
OssauIraty cheese is a great option if you are looking for a flavorful and versatile cheese. It is confident to please everyone at your next gathering. OssauIraty cheese is a French variety of Ossau-Iratysheep’s milk cheese. It is made in the Basque region of France, in the Pyrénées Mountains.
However, OssauIraty is a bit milder than Pecorino, so it may not be the best choice if you’re looking for a strong-flavored cheese.
The cheese has a firm, creamy texture and a nutty, tangy flavor with a hint of sweetness. It is often used in salads and as a table cheese. It can also be melted and used in dishes such as gratins and fondues.
It is white in color with a slightly yellow hue. It pairs nicely with fruits such as apples and pears and with nuts and honey.
The sheep graze on the grasses and herbs of the Pyrénées Mountains. This gives the cheese its distinctive flavor. The cheese is matured for a minimal level of two months and up to a year.
10. Piave – great Low-fat substitute for Pecorino cheese
Piave cheese is an excellent substitute for Pecorino cheese. Piave cheese is made from cow’s milk. It has an identical taste and texture, making it a perfect choice for those who are looking for a milder option.
Piave cheese is also lower in fat and calories, so it is a healthier choice for those watching their weight. It has a firm, dense texture with a slightly crumbly feel. The taste is mellow and buttery, with a hint of sweetness.
Piave cheese is often used in a grated form on top of pasta dishes or as an ingredient in lasagna and other baked dishes. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a snack or appetizer.
It is comparable to Parmesan and made from cow’s milk. The key distinction is that it has matured for roughly a year rather than the normal 18-36 months for Parmesan.
11. Pecorino cheese substitute cheddar
If you’re looking for a pecorino cheese substitute, cheddar is a fantastic choice. It has a similar flavor and texture, creating it an excellent swap in recipes.
Plus, cheddar is easier to find and usually more affordable than pecorino cheese. So if you’re in a pinch, reach for the cheddar!
Read More- White cheddar Alternatives
12. Pecorino cheese substitute mozzarella
Pecorino cheese is a type of Italian cheese that is made from sheep’s milk. It has a strong, salty flavor and can be used as a substitute for mozzarella in many recipes.
Pecorino cheese is also a good choice for grating over pasta dishes or pizzas.
Other Pecorino Cheese Substitutes
- Graviera
- Rumi
- Pecorino Toscano
- Pecorino di Filiano
- Pecorino Romano
Best vegan substitute for pecorino cheese
1. Nutritional yeast is one of the best vegan substitutes for Pecorino Cheese
Pecorino cheese is a traditional Italian hard cheese made from sheep’s milk. It has a sharp, salty flavor that can be a great addition to many dishes.
However, if you are vegan or lactose-intolerant, you may be looking for a pecorino cheese substitute that still gives you that same flavor profile.
One of the best substitutes for pecorino cheese is nutritional yeast. This yellow powder is usually sold in flakes or as a powder and has a slightly cheesy, nutty flavor.
It is usually utilized as a topping on popcorn or as an ingredient in vegan cheese sauces. Nutritional yeast is also a suitable source of vitamins and minerals, making it a health-conscious choice as well.
2. Tofu – Excellent pecorino cheese Alternative
Tofu is a versatile food that can take on many different flavors. When it is flavored and seasoned well, tofu makes an excellent stand-in for cheese in many recipes.
If you are looking for a pecorino cheese substitute that is high in protein, tofu may be the perfect choice for you.
3. cashews cheese – another great vegan substitution for pecorino cheese
Cashews have a creamy texture and a mild flavor that make them a good stand-in for traditional cheeses. They’re also relatively high in protein and healthy fats, making them a nutritional powerhouse.
Like nutritional yeast, cashews are also a good source of vitamins and minerals.
When choosing a vegan substitute for pecorino cheese, it is important to consider the flavor profile you are looking for.
Each of these substitutes will provide you with a different flavor, so be sure to choose one that will best suit your needs. With a little experimentation, you are sure to find the perfect vegan cheese substitute for your next dish.
Read More- Best Oaxaca Cheese Substitutes
Pecorino cheese substitute in carbonara
If you’re looking for a Pecorino cheese substitute for your carbonara, try using Parmesan instead. It’s a little sharper in flavor, but it will still taste great in this classic Italian dish.
Is Romano the same as Pecorino?
Romano and Pecorino are two types of cheese that are often confused with one another. Both kinds of cheese are made from sheep’s milk and have a hard, crumbly texture used for grating.
However, Romano cheese is sharper and saltier than Pecorino cheese. Pecorino cheese is also less pungent than Romano cheese.
When it comes to differences in taste, Romano cheese is the clear winner. Romano is widely used in the United States and Canada, whereas Pecorino origin is from Italy.
However, Pecorino cheese is less expensive than Romano cheese, making it a good alternative for those on a budget.
Read More- Robiola Cheese Alternatives
FAQs on pecorino cheese and its substitute
Q1. What is the same as pecorino cheese?
Pecorino cheese is a variety of cheese that is made from sheep’s milk. It is a hard cheese that has a sharp, salty flavor. Pecorino cheese is usually utilized as a grating cheese, and it can also be eaten on its own or used in cooking.
It is similar to other cheeses, such as parmesan and Grana Padano, Greece Graviera, Alexandrian Rumi, OssauIraty cheese and Piave, etc.
Q2. Is pecorino romano the same as Romano?
Pecorino Romano and Romano are two types of cheese that are often confused with one another. Both are hard, salty cheeses that are used for grating, but they come from different regions of Italy and have different flavors.
Pecorino Romano is a sheep’s milk cheese that originates from the Lazio region of Italy, while Romano is a cow’s, goat’s, and sheep’s milk cheese from the USA and Canada.
Pecorino Romano has a sharper, more pungent flavor than Romano and is generally saltier. It is also aged for a longer period of time, which contributes to its stronger flavor. Romano, on the other hand, has a milder flavor and is less salty.
It is also not aged for as long as Pecorino Romano. When deciding between these two kinds of cheese, it really depends on your personal preference and what you will be using them for.
If you want a cheese with a strong flavor that will hold up well in cooking, then Pecorino Romano is a good choice.
If you prefer a milder cheese or one that will be used more for eating out of hand, then Romano would be a better option.
Q3. Can you substitute parmesan for pecorino romano?
Parmesan and Pecorino Romano are both types of hard, aged cheese that are used for grating. They have a similar flavor, but Parmesan is milder and nuttier tasting, while Pecorino Romano is sharper and saltier.
When replacing one for the other, keep this in mind and modify the amount of salt in your recipe accordingly.
Parmesan and pecorino romano are both types of cheese that can be used in dishes like pasta or pizza. They have a similar taste, but parmesan is usually milder than pecorino romano.
Q4. Can I use Parmigiano-Reggiano instead of Pecorino?
Yes, you can use Parmigiano-Reggiano instead of Pecorino in many recipes. Parmigiano-Reggiano has a more complex flavor than Pecorino and will add a deeper flavor to your dish.
If you’re looking for a substitution for Pecorino that is less expensive, you can try using Gruyere or Swiss cheese.
Q5. Can you use Parmesan instead of Pecorino in carbonara?
Parmesan and Pecorino are both types of hard, sharp cheeses that are used for grating. While Parmesan is made from cow’s milk, Pecorino is made from sheep’s milk. They have a similar flavor, but Pecorino is generally saltier than Parmesan.
You can use either of these cheeses in carbonara, depending on your preference.
Q6. Is Pecorino better than Parmesan?
It actually depends on personal preferences. Some people might prefer the more intense flavor of Pecorino, while others might find Parmesan to be more mellow and creamy.
Finally, it is totally up to the individual to decide which cheese they prefer.
Q7. Is Pecorino a good melting cheese?
Yes, Pecorino is a good melting cheese, but it can be a bit sharp if you don’t like that flavor. Try a milder variety if you’re not sure.
Q8. Can you eat Pecorino cheese by itself?
Pecorino cheese is a delicious and versatile cheese that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a dish. If you’re searching for a tasty snack, try pairing Pecorino cheese with some crackers or bread.
For a more substantial meal, try using Pecorino cheese in place of Parmesan cheese in your favorite recipes. Pecorino cheese is also a great addition to salads and pasta dishes.
No matter how you enjoy it, Pecorino cheese is sure to please your taste buds.
Q9. What goes well with Pecorino cheese?
Pecorino cheese is a versatile cheese that goes well with various foods. It can be enjoyed on its own or used in recipes. Some of the best pairings for Pecorino cheese include:
– crackers
– fruit (especially pears and apples)
– cured meats (such as prosciutto or salami)
– roasted vegetables (such as peppers or eggplant)
– soup or salad
– pasta dishes
– grilled meats or fish
Ultimately, the best pairing for Pecorino cheese is whatever you enjoy eating! Test and find what works nicely for you.
