Cheese Database

Halloumi vs Rubing

Halloumi, field guide plate
Halloumi, photographed

Halloumi

Facts

Milk
Mixed milk
Texture
Semi-hard
Type
Brined
Rind
No rind
Country
Cyprus
Status
PDO

Halloumi is the grilling cheese of Cyprus, and a protected name. The curd is heated, so a slab stays in one piece on a hot pan instead of melting into a puddle.

Rubing

Facts

Milk
Goat
Texture
Semi-soft
Type
Fresh
Rind
No rind
Country
China

Rubing is a fresh goat's milk cheese from China. The name refers to a firm milk cake that is pale, moist, and free of rind. It is set with acid, so slices hold their shape in a hot pan instead of melting into a pool. The taste is mild, milky, and lightly tangy. Cooks usually fry, steam, or stir-fry it rather than set an uncooked block alone on a cheese board.