Boursin and Alouette are two of the most popular cheese spreads available today.
With creamy textures and punchy flavor profiles, these French-inspired cheeses have won over fans worldwide.
But what exactly sets Boursin and Alouette apart?
History of Boursin and Alouette
First, let's dive into the backstories of these famous cheese spreads. Understanding the origins provides context on how Boursin and Alouette came to be household names.
The Story of Boursin
Boursin originated in 1957 in Normandy, France. François Boursin, a cheesemaker and marketing genius, wanted to create a commercial version of fromage frais, a classic French cheese blended with cream and herbs.
After years of perfecting his recipe, Boursin was officially launched in 1963. Boursin gained immense popularity in France through clever TV marketing playing into French food culture. Today, Boursin remains an iconic cheese spread around the world.
Alouette's Humble Beginnings
Alouette cheese traces its roots back to 1893 in the Loire Valley of France. The recipe was crafted by artisans employing traditional cheesemaking techniques passed down through generations.
In 1974, Alouette arrived in the United States, rapidly gaining fame for its high-quality ingredients and authentic French heritage. Like Boursin, Alouette eventually became a beloved international brand.
Comparing Flavors and Varieties
One area where Boursin and Alouette differ is in the range of flavors available. Boursin offers more variety, while Alouette focuses on core flavors.
Boursin's Bold Flavor Options
True to its French roots, Boursin delivers robust, indulgent flavors including:
- Garlic & Fine Herbs - A classic and widely popular option
- Shallot & Chives - Offers a more pungent onion and chive taste
- Pepper - Brings a bold kick of cracked black pepper
- Truffle - An extravagant variety with earthy truffle flavor
- Cracked Pepper & Garlic - Amped up blend of two favorite flavors
In total, Boursin provides over 10 flavors to delight cheese aficionados. Seasonal and limited editions are also sometimes released.
Alouette's Mainstay Flavors
In contrast, Alouette focuses on core flavors that have pleased fans for years:
- Garlic & Herbs - Alouette's most popular flavor
- French Onion - Showcases sweet onions and chives
- Garden Vegetable - A medley of herbs and vegetables
- Chipotle - Adds a smoky, spicy twist
Beyond these mainstay varieties, Alouette has introduced a few additional flavors like Pesto and Bacon. However, the brand offers far fewer overall options compared to Boursin.
Comparing Fat Content and Nutrition
When it comes to health factors, Alouette Cheese pulls ahead as the lighter option between the two brands.
Alouette Has Less Fat
Alouette cheese is made purely from cow's milk, making it lower in fat and calories. For example, a 2 tablespoon serving of Alouette Garlic & Herbs has 9 grams of fat and 80 calories.
In contrast, Boursin has a much richer nutritional profile. Boursin contains a blend of cow's milk and cream, giving it nearly double the fat content and calories compared to Alouette. Two tablespoons of Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs has 15 grams of fat and 150 calories.
For health-conscious consumers watching their fat intake, Alouette can be the more diet-friendly choice between the two.
Other Nutritional Differences
Beyond fat, Alouette also tends to have less sodium than Boursin varieties. However, Boursin offers more protein thanks to its milk and cream base.
When comparing nutrition, it depends whether you are more concerned with fat, sodium, or protein content. Analyzing the exact nutritional label is advised before choosing between Alouette and Boursin.
How the Textures and Consistency Compare
Smooth, spreadable textures define both Boursin and Alouette cheeses. But looking closer, some subtle differences emerge.
Alouette Has a Lighter Consistency
Alouette cheese is characterized by its ultra-creamy, smooth texture. It easily spreads right out of the package. Since Alouette only uses cow's milk as the base, it remains light on the palate.
Boursin is Richer and More Indulgent
The higher fat content of Boursin cheese makes its texture more opulent and decadent. It melts in your mouth with a silky richness. The cream base gives Boursin a denser, more indulgent mouthfeel compared to Alouette.
Depending on your preferences, one texture may appeal over the other. Alouette's lightness contrasts with the sensual richness of Boursin.
Pricing and Availability Comparison
In addition to product differences, Alouette and Boursin differ in their pricing and availability. This may influence which option consumers gravitate towards.
Alouette Retails for Less
Alouette cheese comes in a recognizable silver packaging in 4 oz and 8 oz sizes. Pricing for an 8 oz package averages around $4.29 depending on location. This affords over twice as much spreadable cheese compared to Boursin for a very reasonable cost.
Boursin Costs More Overall
Boursin cheese is packaged in a foil pouch predominantly in a 5.2 oz size. Retail pricing averages $5.99 for this smaller 5.2 oz option. Further, Boursin does not offer larger sizes. Therefore, Boursin costs noticeably more per ounce compared to Alouette cheeses.
Given the significant price difference, budget-conscious shoppers may prefer Alouette. However, Boursin fans continue to pay a premium for the iconic brand name and unique gourmet flavors.
Key Applications and Recipe Substitutions
Boursin and Alouette share similar uses as sandwich spreads, dips for vegetables, additions to pasta, and toppings for crackers. However, you may wonder if they can be swapped in recipes.
Boursin and Alouette Work Interchangeably in Most Recipes
The good news is Boursin and Alouette can be substituted for each other in many culinary applications without sacrificing flavor or texture.
For example, if a recipe calls for Alouette garlic and herb cheese, you can seamlessly replace it with Boursin garlic and fine herbs. The same holds true in reverse - Boursin can stand in for Alouette without issue in many cases.
Just ensure you are matching up the flavors properly, such as garlic and herb varieties between both brands. Beyond that, it is perfectly fine to swap these cheese spreads thanks to their comparable textures and overall versatility.
Adjusting for Fat Content Differences
One point of care when substituting: the higher fat content of Boursin may produce a richer, denser texture. If you sub in Boursin for Alouette, you may want to adjust other high-fat ingredients down slightly.
For instance, if a recipe calls for Alouette and cream, try using Boursin and milk instead for a balanced richness. With care to ingredients, Boursin and Alouette can be used interchangeably in many recipes.
Unique Pairings and Serving Suggestions
While Boursin and Alouette fill similar roles in recipes, each cheese has certain foods that pair exceptionally well with its flavors.
Tailored Pairings for Alouette
Alouette cheese tends to match beautifully with:
- Crackers, bread - Provides the perfect base for spreading
- Fresh vegetables like celery or carrots - Offers crunch and freshness
- Grapes, melons, apples - Fruit sweetness balances the tang
- Chicken, fish, pork - Allows savory meats to shine
- Wine, beer - Enhances the cheese's herbal qualities
Best Pairings with Boursin
The bolder Boursin flavors pair wonderfully with:
- Crusty bread, crostini - Contrasts indulgent cheese
- Charcuterie meats like salami or prosciutto - Complements the rich flavors
- Full-bodied red wine - Tempers the strong cheese
- Hearty meats like beef or lamb - Stands up to intense flavors
- Fried foods like ravioli or wontons - Cuts through rich dishes
Experiment to find your favorite pairings with each cheese's unique qualities. The possibilities are endless!
How Does Homemade Boursin and Alouette Compare?
Many people try making homemade versions of Boursin and Alouette to save money. How do the homemade cheeses stack up against the original brands?
Replicating the Exact Flavors is Difficult
Recreating the exact Boursin and Alouette flavors at home can be challenging. These brands use specialized cultures and techniques to develop their signature cheeses over decades. Homemade cheeses often have subtle differences in sharpness, saltiness, or nuances.
The Texture Can Be Hard to Duplicate
In addition to matching the flavors, the creamy, spreadable textures of Boursin and Alouette are difficult to achieve identically at home. Without industrial homogenizing equipment, homemade cheese spreads tend to be less smooth.
Homemade is Cheaper and Offers Control
That said, there are benefits to DIY cheese spreads. You can customize flavors to your liking. It also allows you to avoid preservatives found in store-bought options. And homemade is undoubtedly far less expensive per ounce.
If you are open to slight textural and flavor differences, homemade can be a cost-effective alternative to enjoy these cheese spreads more affordably.
Key Takeaway: Homemade versions provide cost savings yet will not mimic brands exactly. Weigh pros and cons based on your priorities when deciding between homemade or store-bought.
Final Recommendations for Enjoying Boursin and Alouette
Boursin and Alouette both offer delicious ways to add bold, creamy flavors to recipes and snacks. Here are final tips for buying and serving these legendary cheeses:
- Check labels for additives - Some varieties contain preservatives like sorbic acid. Choose options without additives if desired.
- Let cheese come to room temperature before serving - This enhances the smooth, spreadable texture and flavor nuances.
- Try different flavor combinations - Mix and match with herbs, spices, nuts, or jams to create your own signature cheese.
- Pair with wines or beers - Cut through the richness by pairing with sparkling wines, wheat beers, sauvignon blanc or other lighter alcohol options.
At the end of the day, food comes down to individual taste and personal priorities. By understanding all that Boursin and Alouette have to offer, you can decide which cheese is your number one.
FAQs
Is Boursin better than Alouette?
There is no definitive "better" option between Boursin and Alouette. Boursin offers bolder flavors and a richer texture. Alouette is lighter and more affordable. Choose based on your flavor preferences and budget.
Can Boursin and Alouette be substituted for each other?
In most recipes, Boursin and Alouette can be used interchangeably in a 1:1 ratio when matching flavors. Adjust other high-fat ingredients down slightly if swapping richer Boursin for Alouette.
Is Alouette cheese healthy?
Alouette is relatively healthy compared to other cheeses given its lower fat and sodium levels. However, all cheeses should be eaten in moderation as they remain high in saturated fat.
Where are Boursin and Alouette cheeses sold?
Both Boursin and Alouette are widely available at most grocery stores and online retailers. Boursin can also be found at some specialty cheese shops. Availability of specific flavors may vary by location.
Can you freeze Boursin or Alouette cheese?
It's not recommended. Freezing can negatively impact the texture and flavor. Refrigerate any uneaten portions in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks.
Conclusion
Boursin and Alouette offer cheese lovers creamy textures and bold flavors. Boursin stands out for its indulgent richness and variety of flavor options. Alouette shines for its lighter nutrition profile and budget-friendly prices.
From sandwiches to appetizer platters, these cheese spreads deliver punches of flavor however you use them. Now that you understand their unique differences and similarities, decide whether traditional Boursin or Alouette cheeses earn the top spot in your kitchen.