Aged Gouda Cheese vs Emmental Cheese
In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Aged Gouda Cheese and Emmental Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between Aged Gouda Cheese and Emmental Cheese?"
- "Is Aged Gouda Cheese and Emmental Cheese the same?"
- "How does Aged Gouda Cheese compare to Emmental Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of Aged Gouda Cheese compare to Emmental Cheese?"
- "Is Aged Gouda Cheese or Emmental 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.
Emmental Cheese Overview
Emmental is a classic Swiss cheese, known for its large holes and nutty, mild flavor. It is made from cow's milk and has a hard, dense texture. The holes, or "eyes," develop during the fermentation process as a result of gas released by the bacteria in the cheese. Emmental is often used in sandwiches and is a key ingredient in traditional Swiss fondue.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Country of Origin
Aged Gouda Cheese comes from Netherlands. Emmental Cheese originated from Switzerland.
Certification
Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. Aged Gouda is not a protected cheese. Emmental Cheese has a PDO (2004).
Milk Type and Treatment
Aged Gouda Cheese is made with cow, goat, or sheep milk that is typically pasteurized or unpasteurized. Emmental Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw.
Composition and Texture
Aged Gouda's texture can be described as "hard". Emmental Cheese has a fat content of minimum of 45% (dry matter). Emmental's texture can be described as "hard or medium-hard".
Taste and Aroma
Aged Gouda's aroma can be described as "rich". Emmental Cheese has a nutty, sweet taste.
Appearance and Aging
Aged Gouda Cheese's appearance is colored yellow . Emmental Cheese has a color of yellow , comes in round loaves and has an aging period of 4 months to over 1 year .
Rind and Rennet Type
Aged Gouda Cheese's rind is described as waxed .
Ranking
Aged Gouda is ranked #77 out of 996 types based on community views. Emmental is ranked #15 out of 996 types based on community views.
Pairing Comparison
Aged Gouda | Emmental | |
---|---|---|
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 | Dijon Mustard |
For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Aged Gouda and Emmental pages.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
Aged Gouda Cheese | Emmental Cheese | |
---|---|---|
Country of Origin | Netherlands | Switzerland |
Specific Origin | Not Specified | Emmental, Canton Of Bern |
Certification | Not Specified | PDO (2004) |
Milk Type | Cow's, goat's or sheep's milk | Cow's milk |
Milk Treatment | Pasteurized or unpasteurized | Raw |
Fat Content | Not Specified | Minimum of 45% (dry matter) |
Rind | Waxed | Not Specified |
Texture | Hard | Hard or medium-hard |
Taste | Not Specified | Nutty, sweet |
Aroma | Rich | Not Specified |
Colors | Yellow | Yellow |
Forms | Not Specified | Round loaves |
Age | Not Specified | 4 months to over 1 year |
Which One Should You Choose?
If you prefer a hard cheese, go for Aged Gouda. But if you enjoy a hard or medium-hard consistency, Emmental might be the better pick.