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Aged Gouda Cheese vs Edam Cheese
In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Aged Gouda Cheese and Edam Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between Aged Gouda Cheese and Edam Cheese?"
- "Is Aged Gouda Cheese and Edam Cheese the same?"
- "How does Aged Gouda Cheese compare to Edam Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of Aged Gouda Cheese compare to Edam Cheese?"
- "Is Aged Gouda Cheese or Edam Cheese better?"
Aged Gouda Cheese Overview
Aged Gouda is a hard cheese from the Netherlands, known for its rich aroma and firm texture. It can be made from cow's, goat's, or sheep's milk and may be pasteurized or unpasteurized. The cheese has a yellow color and is typically covered with a waxed rind. As it ages, Gouda develops a deeper, caramel-like flavor with hints of nuttiness and a slight crunch from protein crystals. This makes it a popular choice for snacking or serving on cheese platters. Its rich taste pairs well with robust red wines or dark beers. Often referred to as Oud Gouda, this cheese is a staple in both local and international markets.
Edam Cheese Overview
Edam is a semi-hard Dutch cheese that is recognizable by its typically red or yellow wax coating. Made from partially skimmed cow's milk, it has a mild, slightly salty flavor and a firm but creamy texture. Edam ages well and does not spoil; instead, it hardens, which makes it an excellent cheese for long-term storage.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Country of Origin
Aged Gouda Cheese comes from Netherlands. Edam Cheese originated from Netherlands.
Milk Type and Treatment
Aged Gouda Cheese is made with cow, goat, or sheep milk that is typically pasteurized or unpasteurized. Edam Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized.
Composition and Texture
Aged Gouda's texture can be described as "hard". Edam's texture can be described as "rubber-textured to crystalline".
Taste and Aroma
Aged Gouda's aroma can be described as "rich". Edam Cheese has a sweet, milky, nutty, buttery taste.
Appearance and Aging
Aged Gouda Cheese's appearance is colored yellow . Edam Cheese has a color of red , comes in round and has an aging period of 3 months to longer .
Rind and Rennet Type
Aged Gouda Cheese's rind is described as waxed . Edam Cheese's rind is described as smooth, waxed .
Ranking
Aged Gouda is ranked #77 out of 996 types based on community views. Edam is ranked #14 out of 996 types based on community views.
Pairing Comparison
| Aged Gouda | Edam | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pairings | Almonds, Apples, Apricot, Asian Pear, Belgian Blonde, Bordeaux, Burgundy Red, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, California Viogniers, Champagne, Crackers, Dried Cranberries, Grapes, Green Apple, IPA, Malbec, Merlot, Muscat, Pear, Pecans, Prosciutto, Pumpkin, Salami, Sangiovese, Scotch, Sweet Potato, Viognier | No pairings listed. |
| Other Good Pairings | Amaro, Cava, Dried Figs, Ginger, Mangoes, Pistachios, Port, Roasted Vegetables, Strawberries, Tequila | Chardonnay |
For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Aged Gouda and Edam pages.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Aged Gouda Cheese | Edam Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Netherlands | Netherlands |
| Specific Origin | Not Specified | North Of Holland |
| Milk Type | Cow's, goat's or sheep's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized or unpasteurized | Pasteurized |
| Rind | Waxed | Smooth, waxed |
| Texture | Hard | Rubber-textured to crystalline |
| Taste | Not Specified | Sweet, milky, nutty, buttery |
| Aroma | Rich | Not Specified |
| Colors | Yellow | Red |
| Forms | Not Specified | Round |
| Age | Not Specified | 3 months to longer |
Which One Should You Choose?
If you prefer a hard cheese, go for Aged Gouda. But if you enjoy a rubber-textured to crystalline consistency, Edam might be the better pick.
