Edam Cheese vs Parmesan Cheese

Edam Cheese

Parmesan Cheese

In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Edam Cheese and Parmesan Cheese, including:

  • "What is the difference between Edam Cheese and Parmesan Cheese?"
  • "Is Edam Cheese and Parmesan Cheese the same?"
  • "How does Edam Cheese compare to Parmesan Cheese cheese?"
  • "How does the taste of Edam Cheese compare to Parmesan Cheese?"
  • "Is Edam Cheese or Parmesan 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.

Parmesan Cheese Overview

Parmesan, often referred to by its Italian name, Parmigiano-Reggiano, is a hard, granular cheese known for its rich flavor and grainy texture. Made from cow's milk, it's aged for a minimum of 12 months, often much longer, to develop its distinct nutty and savory profile. Parmesan is a staple in Italian cuisine, commonly grated over pasta dishes, stirred into soups, or eaten on its own.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Edam Cheese comes from Netherlands. Parmesan Cheese originated from Italy.

Milk Type and Treatment

Edam Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized. Parmesan Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically unpasteurized.

Composition and Texture

Edam's texture can be described as "rubber-textured to crystalline". Parmesan's texture can be described as "hard, artisan".

Taste and Aroma

Edam Cheese has a sweet, milky, nutty, buttery taste. Parmesan Cheese has a salty, savory taste. Parmesan's aroma can be described as "nutty, strong".

Appearance and Aging

Edam Cheese's appearance is colored red , is available in round and is aged 3 months to longer . Parmesan Cheese has a color of straw .

Rind and Rennet Type

Edam Cheese's rind is described as smooth, waxed . Parmesan Cheese's rind is described as natural .

Ranking

Edam is ranked #14 out of 996 types based on community views. Parmesan is ranked #43 out of 996 types based on community views.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Edam Cheese Parmesan Cheese
Country of Origin Netherlands Italy
Specific Origin North Of Holland Not Specified
Milk Type Cow's milk Cow's milk
Milk Treatment Pasteurized Unpasteurized
Rind Smooth, waxed Natural
Texture Rubber-textured to crystalline Hard, artisan
Taste Sweet, milky, nutty, buttery Salty, savory
Aroma Not Specified Nutty, strong
Colors Red Straw
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, artisan consistency, Parmesan might be the better pick. Edam has a sweet, milky, nutty, buttery taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Parmesan offers a salty, savory profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Edam Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Parmesan Cheese to Other Cheeses

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