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

Ranking

Edam is ranked #15 out of 377 types.

Monterey Jack is ranked #24 out of 377 types.

Country of Origin

Edam Cheese comes from Netherlands. Monterey Jack Cheese originated from 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".

Flavor and Aroma

Edam Cheese has a sweet, milky, nutty, buttery flavor. Monterey Jack Cheese has a mild to full-flavored flavor.

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.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Edam Cheese Monterey Jack Cheese
Country of Origin Netherlands United States
Specific Origin North of Holland Monterey County, California
Milk Type Cow's Milk Pasteurized cow's milk
Milk Treatment Mostly pasteurized Pasteurized
Fat Content Not less than 50% on a dry basis
Moisture Content Not more than 44%
Rind Smooth, waxed
Texture Rubber-textured to crystalline Mild to firm
Flavor Sweet, milky, nutty, buttery Mild to full-flavored
Colors Red Cream to golden
Forms Round
Age 3 months to longer Six weeks to ten months
Rennet Type Animal

Compare Edam Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Monterey Jack Cheese to Other Cheeses

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