Edam Cheese vs Fontina-Style Cheese
Edam Cheese
Fontina-Style Cheese
Edam Cheese is a rubber-textured to crystalline cow-milk cheese from Netherlands, while Fontina-Style Cheese is .
What Is Edam Cheese?
Edam is a semi-hard Dutch cheese named after the town of Edam in North Holland, sold in flat-ended spheres under a red wax rind. It hardens rather than spoils, which made it the world's most popular cheese from the 14th to the 18th century.
What Is Fontina-Style Cheese?
Fontina-Style cheese is a semi-soft cheese known for its creamy texture and mild, nutty flavor. It draws inspiration from traditional Italian Fontina but is often made in various regions outside Italy. The cheese has a pale yellow interior with a few small holes and a natural rind. It melts well, making it a popular choice for cooking, particularly in sauces and fondues. The flavor is buttery and slightly earthy, which pairs well with a variety of foods. Fontina-Style cheese can be sliced for sandwiches or served as part of a cheese platter. It is also a good companion to fruits and nuts, enhancing its mild sweetness.
What's the Difference Between Edam Cheese and Fontina-Style Cheese?
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Edam Cheese | Fontina-Style Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Netherlands | — |
| Specific Origin | North Of Holland | — |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | — |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized | — |
| Texture | Rubber-textured to crystalline | — |
| Rind | Smooth, waxed | — |
| Aging | 3 months to longer | — |
| Taste | Sweet, milky, nutty, buttery | — |
Taste Comparison: Does Edam Cheese Taste Like Fontina-Style Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Edam Cheese for Fontina-Style Cheese?
Edam Cheese can stand in for Fontina-Style Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Edam Cheese or Fontina-Style Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want.
Which is your favorite?
One click, anonymous. See what others chose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Edam Cheese the same as Fontina-Style Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses.
Is Edam Cheese similar to Fontina-Style Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Edam Cheese for Fontina-Style Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Edam Cheese taste like Fontina-Style Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Edam Cheese made of?
Edam Cheese is made from cow milk (pasteurized). It's typically aged 3 months to longer. It originates in Netherlands.
What is Fontina-Style Cheese made of?
Fontina-Style Cheese is made from milk.
Which should I choose, Edam Cheese or Fontina-Style Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.