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Edam Cheese vs Iberico Cheese
In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Edam Cheese and Iberico Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between Edam Cheese and Iberico Cheese?"
- "Is Edam Cheese and Iberico Cheese the same?"
- "How does Edam Cheese compare to Iberico Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of Edam Cheese compare to Iberico Cheese?"
- "Is Edam Cheese or Iberico Cheese better?"
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.
Iberico Cheese Overview
Queso Iberico is a hard cheese from Spain made using a blend of cow's, goat's, and sheep's milk. It can be crafted from either pasteurized or unpasteurized milk, contributing to its rich and aromatic profile. This cheese has a buttery and nutty flavor with a strong taste that captures the essence of its mixed milk origins. The cheese is typically white in color and features a natural rind. Known also as Iberico Cheese, it offers a satisfying density and a complex taste that pairs well with a variety of foods. Its rich aroma and firm texture make it a popular choice for cheese lovers seeking a traditional Spanish flavor.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Country of Origin
Edam Cheese comes from Netherlands. Iberico Cheese originated from Spain.
Milk Type and Treatment
Edam Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized. Iberico Cheese is made with cow, goat, and sheep milk that is typically pasteurized or unpasteurized.
Composition and Texture
Edam's texture can be described as "rubber-textured to crystalline". Iberico's texture can be described as "hard".
Taste and Aroma
Edam Cheese has a sweet, milky, nutty, buttery taste. Iberico Cheese has a buttery, nutty, strong taste. Iberico's aroma can be described as "aromatic, rich".
Appearance and Aging
Edam Cheese's appearance is colored red , is available in round and is aged 3 months to longer . Iberico Cheese has a color of white .
Rind and Rennet Type
Edam Cheese's rind is described as smooth, waxed . Iberico Cheese's rind is described as natural .
Ranking
Edam is ranked #13 out of 996 types based on community views. Iberico is ranked #85 out of 996 types based on community views.
Pairing Comparison
| Edam | Iberico | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pairings | No pairings listed. | Vinho Verde |
| Other Good Pairings | Chardonnay | No additional pairings listed. |
For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Edam and Iberico pages.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Edam Cheese | Iberico Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Netherlands | Spain |
| Specific Origin | North Of Holland | Not Specified |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's, goat's and sheep's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized | Pasteurized or unpasteurized |
| Rind | Smooth, waxed | Natural |
| Texture | Rubber-textured to crystalline | Hard |
| Taste | Sweet, milky, nutty, buttery | Buttery, nutty, strong |
| Aroma | Not Specified | Aromatic, rich |
| Colors | Red | White |
| Forms | Round | Not Specified |
| Age | 3 months to longer | Not Specified |
Which One Should You Choose?
If you prefer a rubber-textured to crystalline cheese, go for Edam. But if you enjoy a hard consistency, Iberico might be the better pick. Edam has a sweet, milky, nutty, buttery taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Iberico offers a buttery, nutty, strong profile, ideal for different meals.
