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Edam Cheese vs Monterey Jack Cheese
Edam Cheese
Monterey Jack Cheese
In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Edam Cheese and Monterey Jack Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between Edam Cheese and Monterey Jack Cheese?"
- "Is Edam Cheese and Monterey Jack Cheese the same?"
- "How does Edam Cheese compare to Monterey Jack Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of Edam Cheese compare to Monterey Jack Cheese?"
- "Is Edam Cheese or Monterey Jack 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.
Monterey Jack Cheese Overview
Monterey Jack is a popular American cheese originating from Monterey, California. It's known for its mild flavor and semi-soft texture, making it an excellent melting cheese. Monterey Jack can be enjoyed on its own or used in a variety of dishes, particularly Mexican and American cuisines, such as quesadillas and burgers.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Country of Origin
Edam Cheese comes from Netherlands. Monterey Jack Cheese originated from Mexico and United States.
Milk Type and Treatment
Edam Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized. Monterey Jack Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized.
Composition and Texture
Edam's texture can be described as "rubber-textured to crystalline". Monterey Jack Cheese has a fat content of not less than 50% on a dry basis and a moisture content of none. Monterey Jack's texture can be described as "mild to firm".
Taste and Aroma
Edam Cheese has a sweet, milky, nutty, buttery taste. Monterey Jack Cheese has a mild to full-flavored taste. Monterey Jack's aroma can be described as "aromatic".
Appearance and Aging
Edam Cheese's appearance is colored red , is available in round and is aged 3 months to longer . Monterey Jack Cheese has a color of cream to golden and has an aging period of six weeks to ten months .
Rind and Rennet Type
Edam Cheese's rind is described as smooth, waxed . Monterey Jack Cheese uses animal rennet.
Ranking
Edam is ranked #13 out of 996 types based on community views. Monterey Jack is ranked #23 out of 996 types based on community views.
Pairing Comparison
| Edam | Monterey Jack | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pairings | No pairings listed. | Macaroni and Cheese, Pulled Pork, Tacos |
| Other Good Pairings | Chardonnay | Clam Chowder, Pastrami |
For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Edam and Monterey Jack pages.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Edam Cheese | Monterey Jack Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Netherlands | Mexico And United States |
| Specific Origin | North Of Holland | Monterey County, California |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized | Pasteurized |
| Fat Content | Not Specified | Not less than 50% on a dry basis |
| Moisture Content | Not Specified | Not more than 44% |
| Rind | Smooth, waxed | Not Specified |
| Texture | Rubber-textured to crystalline | Mild to firm |
| Taste | Sweet, milky, nutty, buttery | Mild to full-flavored |
| Aroma | Not Specified | Aromatic |
| Colors | Red | Cream to golden |
| Forms | Round | Not Specified |
| Age | 3 months to longer | Six weeks to ten months |
| Rennet Type | Not Specified | Animal |
Which One Should You Choose?
If you prefer a rubber-textured to crystalline cheese, go for Edam. But if you enjoy a mild to firm consistency, Monterey Jack might be the better pick. Edam has a sweet, milky, nutty, buttery taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Monterey Jack offers a mild to full-flavored profile, ideal for different meals.
