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Edam Cheese vs Munster Cheese
Edam Cheese
Munster Cheese
In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Edam Cheese and Munster Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between Edam Cheese and Munster Cheese?"
- "Is Edam Cheese and Munster Cheese the same?"
- "How does Edam Cheese compare to Munster Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of Edam Cheese compare to Munster Cheese?"
- "Is Edam Cheese or Munster 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.
Munster Cheese Overview
Munster is a strong-smelling, soft cheese from the Alsace and Lorraine regions of France. It has a washed rind, which gives it a red-orange color and a distinctive pungent aroma. The flavor is rich and tangy, often enjoyed with cumin seeds and paired with beers or strong wines.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Country of Origin
Edam Cheese comes from Netherlands. Munster Cheese originated from France.
Certification
Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. Edam is not a protected cheese. Munster Cheese has a AOC (1969).
Milk Type and Treatment
Edam Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized. Munster Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically unpasteurized.
Composition and Texture
Edam's texture can be described as "rubber-textured to crystalline". Munster Cheese has a fat content of 45-48%. Munster's texture can be described as "semisoft".
Taste and Aroma
Edam Cheese has a sweet, milky, nutty, buttery taste. Munster Cheese has a strong, gamey taste. Munster's aroma can be described as "gamey, aromatic".
Appearance and Aging
Edam Cheese's appearance is colored red , is available in round and is aged 3 months to longer . Munster Cheese has a color of orangey-pink to orange-red , comes in flat wheel, 1-3 inches high, 5-8 inches diameter and has an aging period of 4-6 weeks to 2-3 months .
Rind and Rennet Type
Edam Cheese's rind is described as smooth, waxed . Munster Cheese's rind is described as washed, saltwater solution , with traditional rennet.
Ranking
Edam is ranked #15 out of 996 types based on community views. Munster is ranked #45 out of 996 types based on community views.
Pairing Comparison
| Edam | Munster | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pairings | No pairings listed. | German Riesling, Riesling |
| Other Good Pairings | Chardonnay | Belgian Blonde |
For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Edam and Munster pages.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Edam Cheese | Munster Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Netherlands | France |
| Specific Origin | North Of Holland | Alsace, Lorraine, Franche-Comté |
| Certification | Not Specified | AOC (1969) |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized | Unpasteurized |
| Fat Content | Not Specified | 45-48% |
| Rind | Smooth, waxed | Washed, saltwater solution |
| Texture | Rubber-textured to crystalline | Semisoft |
| Taste | Sweet, milky, nutty, buttery | Strong, gamey |
| Aroma | Not Specified | Gamey, aromatic |
| Colors | Red | Orangey-pink to orange-red |
| Forms | Round | Flat wheel, 1-3 inches high, 5-8 inches diameter |
| Age | 3 months to longer | 4-6 weeks to 2-3 months |
| Rennet Type | Not Specified | Traditional rennet |
Which One Should You Choose?
If you prefer a rubber-textured to crystalline cheese, go for Edam. But if you enjoy a semisoft consistency, Munster might be the better pick. Edam has a sweet, milky, nutty, buttery taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Munster offers a strong, gamey profile, ideal for different meals.
