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The Daily Insight

Where is Emmental?

Author

Samuel Coleman

Published Apr 09, 2026

Where is Emmental?

Switzerland
The Emmental (lit.: the Emme’s valley) is a valley in west central Switzerland, forming part of the canton of Bern. It is a hilly landscape comprising the basins of the rivers Emme and Ilfis. The region is mostly devoted to farming, particularly dairy farming.

Where can I use Emmental cheese?

Uses. Emmenthal has very good melting properties, which makes it ideal for cheese fondue or any dish that requires melted cheese, such as gratins and casseroles, grilled cheese sandwiches, pasta, and egg dishes. It can also be eaten cold, layered into sandwiches, or served on a cheese platter with fruit and nuts.

When was Emmental cheese invented?

around 1353
Emmental cheese (sometimes also called Emmentaler or Emmenthal) is a Swiss cheese. It first came from Switzerland. It is named after the Emmental, the valley of a river, near Berne. Emmental cheese was first made around 1353 when Bern joined the confederacy.

Is Emmental Swiss?

American. The Emmental is a valley (the word tal in German means “valley” or “dale”) in west-central Switzerland. Forming part of the canton of Bern, the region is hilly and mostly devoted to dairy farming. Emmentaler (pronounced EMM-en-tall-er) is what we all know as Swiss cheese.

Where does Emmental cheese get its name from?

Alternative spellings: Emmenthal, Emmenthaler, Emmentaler This cheese is produced in the central cantons of Switzerland. It is a traditional, unpasteurised, hard cheese made from cow’s milk. It’s hard, thin rind is covered by paper with producer’s name on it.

What can I substitute for Emmental cheese in a recipe?

It is traditionally made from unpasteurized milk and you can also find it across the border in France, not just in Switzerland. However, what if you are unable to get this cheese and you need something to use in your recipe. You can substitute Emmental cheese with Gruyere, Fontina, Jarlsberg, French Comte, and Raclette.

What kind of cheese has holes in it?

It is considered medium-hard and it has a savory taste which most people like. Fun fact: Emmental became popular for its holes, but the holes in cheese used to be considered mistakes and were avoided. For this (w)hole reason, Havarti may be the closest you can get to Emmental.

What’s the difference between Emmentaler and Jarlsberg cheese?

The characteristics between the two are very similar and usually, Jarlsberg is said to be Swiss cheese. It has a sweeter and stronger taste than the Emmentaler. This is a cheese that has a yellow interior and it is very buttery, with a rich texture and mild, nutty flavor.

Are there any Emmental cheeses outside of Switzerland?

Outside Switzerland Allgäuer Emmentaler, from Bavaria, Germany, has PDO status Emmental de Savoie, from Savoie, France, has PGI status Emmental français est-central from Franche-Comté, France, also has PGI status

Where did the name Emmentaler cheese come from?

Emmentaler (or Emmental cheese) is a medium-hard cheese originating in the area around Emmental, Switzerland. Either term is correct: Emmental is the name of the place, while Emmentaler describes something from there…like America vs. American.

What to do with Emmentaler cheese in Wisconsin?

Of course, since traditional Emmentaler cheese comes with a premium price tag, you would be well advised to use it in a recipe that best showcases its subtle nuances. Try it in one of these excellent Emmentaler cheese recipes from the Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board. Emmentaler is traditionally paired with Gruyère in a Swiss fondue.

What do you do with holes in Emmental cheese?

Historically, the holes were a sign of imperfection, and until modern times, cheese makers would try to avoid them. Emmental cheese is used in a variety of dishes, particularly in gratins, and fondue, where it is mixed with Gruyère.