Edam Cheese vs Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)

Edam Cheese is a semi-hard, elastic cow-milk cheese from Netherlands, while Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) is semi-soft, washed-rind and made from cow milk, originating in Australia.

What Is Edam Cheese?

Edam is a semi-hard Dutch cheese named after the town of Edam in North Holland, sold in flat-ended spheres under a red wax rind. It hardens rather than spoils, which made it the world's most popular cheese from the 14th to the 18th century.

What Is Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?

Washed Rind Cheese from Australia is made using cow's milk and is known for its smear-ripened texture, which can range from soft to hard or semi-hard. The flavor profile of this cheese is a mix of nutty, sharp, and sweet notes, making it appealing to a variety of palates. Its aroma is quite strong and earthy, which is typical of washed rind cheeses. The washed rind technique contributes to its distinctive smell and flavor, as it encourages the growth of specific bacteria on the surface. This cheese can be a great addition to a cheese board, enjoyed on its own, or paired with fruits and bread.

What's the Difference Between Edam Cheese and Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?

• Origin: Edam Cheese (Netherlands), Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) (Australia)
• Texture: Edam Cheese (Semi-hard, elastic), Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) (Semi-soft, washed-rind)
• Rind: Edam Cheese (Smooth, waxed), Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) (washed)
• Taste: Edam Cheese (Sweet, milky, nutty, buttery), Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) (nutty, sharp, sweet)

Side-by-Side Comparison

Taste Comparison: Does Edam Cheese Taste Like Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?

Edam Cheese reads as sweet, milky, nutty, buttery, while Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) brings nutty, sharp, sweet character. On the nose, Edam Cheese offers almost no smell when young, contrasted with Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)'s earthy, strong.

Can You Substitute Edam Cheese for Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?

In most recipes, Edam Cheese and Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over. Expect semi-hard, elastic bite and body where the recipe calls for semi-soft, washed-rind. Flavor-wise, Edam Cheese reads as sweet, milky, nutty, buttery while Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) brings nutty, sharp, sweet notes.

Which Is Better, Edam Cheese or Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?

There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a semi-hard, elastic cheese, go with Edam Cheese. For a semi-soft, washed-rind profile, Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) is the better fit. Flavor-wise, Edam Cheese suits recipes that want sweet, milky, nutty, buttery notes, while Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) fits dishes calling for nutty, sharp, sweet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Edam Cheese the same as Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?

No, they're distinct cheeses. Edam Cheese originates in Netherlands, while Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) comes from Australia.

Is Edam Cheese similar to Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?

Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.

Can I substitute Edam Cheese for Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?

You can, but expect a shift in bite and mouthfeel.

Does Edam Cheese taste like Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?

Edam Cheese reads as sweet, milky, nutty, buttery, while Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) is nutty, sharp, sweet. Aromas also diverge. Edam Cheese leans almost no smell when young, and Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) is closer to earthy, strong.

What is Edam Cheese made of?

Edam Cheese is made from cow milk (pasteurized). It's typically aged 3 months to longer. It originates in Netherlands.

What is Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) made of?

Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) is made from cow milk. It originates in Australia.

Which should I choose, Edam Cheese or Washed Rind Cheese (Australian)?

It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Edam Cheese is semi-hard, elastic, while Washed Rind Cheese (Australian) is semi-soft, washed-rind.