All you need to know about Swiss cheese
Switzerland is famous for its cheese, and if you’re visiting, you must know the essentials! From world-renowned varieties to traditional Swiss dishes like fondue oder Raclette, here’s your guide to understanding Swiss cheese.
Was man bei einem Besuch in der Schweiz essen sollte
The Most Famous Swiss Cheeses
Switzerland produces over 450 types of cheese, but let’s focus on the two most famous ones—one known worldwide and the other a national treasure.
Emmentaler – The International Stark
If you’ve ever heard someone say “Swiss cheese,” they’re probably talking about Emmentaler. This is the cheese with the iconic holes, known as “eyes,” formed during fermentation.
- Size: The largest Swiss cheese, weighing up to 120 kg per wheel.
- Flavors by Age:
- 4 months – Mild and nutty.
- 8 months – Fruity and complexity.
- 12 months – Strong, aromatic, and crumbly.
Le Gruyère – Switzerland’s National Treasure
Gruyère is the most beloved cheese in Switzerland. It can only be produced in a few select cantons using the finest Swiss milk.
- Aging process:
- 6-9 months – Smooth, refined, with sweet undertones.
- 10+ months – Known as Réserve, with a full, aromatic taste.
- 18 months+ – Extra-matured for intense, robust flavors.
Traditional Swiss Cheese Dishes
No trip to Switzerland is complete without trying Fondue and Raclette, two legendary dishes that bring people together.
Fondue
Fondue comes from the French word fondre, meaning “to melt.” It’s a social dish where melted cheese is served in a communal pot, and diners dip bread using long-stemmed forks.
- Traditional Fondue Cheeses:
- Gruyère
- Emmentaler
- Often blended for richer flavors.
- Fun Fact: Fondue isn’t just for cheese! There’s also chocolate fondue—if you have a sweet tooth, check out our Anfängerleitfaden für Schweizer Schokolade.
Raclette
Raclette refers to both the cheese and the meal itself. It originated in the Valais region and was traditionally melted by an open fire, then scraped onto a plate.
- How It’s Served:
- Melted cheese is scraped over steaming hot potatoes.
- Served with cornichons (pickles) and pickled onions.
- Many Swiss homes use tabletop Raclette grills, where cheese slices are melted in small trays.
Now that you know the essentials, it’s time to try them yourself! Swiss cheese is all about great flavors and good company.
