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Edam Cheese vs Ricotta Cheese
Edam Cheese
Ricotta Cheese
In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Edam Cheese and Ricotta Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between Edam Cheese and Ricotta Cheese?"
- "Is Edam Cheese and Ricotta Cheese the same?"
- "How does Edam Cheese compare to Ricotta Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of Edam Cheese compare to Ricotta Cheese?"
- "Is Edam Cheese or Ricotta 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.
Ricotta Cheese Overview
Ricotta is a soft Italian cheese made from the whey left over from the production of other cheeses, primarily sheep, cow, goat, or buffalo milk. It has a creamy texture and a mild, sweet flavor, making it versatile for both savory dishes, like lasagna and ravioli, and sweet dishes, such as cheesecakes and cannoli.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Country of Origin
Edam Cheese comes from Netherlands. Ricotta Cheese originated from Italy.
Milk Type and Treatment
Edam Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized. Ricotta Cheese is made with cow, goat, sheep, or buffalo milk that is typically unknown.
Composition and Texture
Edam's texture can be described as "rubber-textured to crystalline". Ricotta Cheese has a fat content of varies and a moisture content of none. Ricotta's texture can be described as "soft, moist".
Taste and Aroma
Edam Cheese has a sweet, milky, nutty, buttery taste. Ricotta Cheese has a sweet, slightly creamy taste. Ricotta's aroma can be described as "mild".
Appearance and Aging
Edam Cheese's appearance is colored red , is available in round and is aged 3 months to longer . Ricotta Cheese has a color of white , comes in grainy soft mass and has an aging period of fresh .
Rind and Rennet Type
Edam Cheese's rind is described as smooth, waxed . Ricotta Cheese's rind is described as none , with animal or microbial rennet.
Ranking
Edam is ranked #14 out of 996 types based on community views. Ricotta is ranked #20 out of 996 types based on community views.
Pairing Comparison
| Edam | Ricotta | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pairings | No pairings listed. | Fruit Compote, Pumpkin |
| Other Good Pairings | Chardonnay | Albariño, Apricot, Asti Spumante, Bresaola, Honey, Honeycomb, Kiwi, Mangoes, Pesto, Raspberry, Roasted Vegetables, Strawberries |
For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Edam and Ricotta pages.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Edam Cheese | Ricotta Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Netherlands | Italy |
| Specific Origin | North Of Holland | Not Specified |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's, goat's, sheep's or water buffalo's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized | Whey |
| Fat Content | Not Specified | Varies |
| Moisture Content | Not Specified | High |
| Rind | Smooth, waxed | None |
| Texture | Rubber-textured to crystalline | Soft, moist |
| Taste | Sweet, milky, nutty, buttery | Sweet, slightly creamy |
| Aroma | Not Specified | Mild |
| Colors | Red | White |
| Forms | Round | Grainy soft mass |
| Age | 3 months to longer | Fresh |
| Rennet Type | Not Specified | Animal or Microbial |
Which One Should You Choose?
If you prefer a rubber-textured to crystalline cheese, go for Edam. But if you enjoy a soft, moist consistency, Ricotta might be the better pick. Edam has a sweet, milky, nutty, buttery taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Ricotta offers a sweet, slightly creamy profile, ideal for different meals.
