Emmental Cheese vs Maasdam Cheese

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

• "What is the difference between Emmental Cheese and Maasdam Cheese?"
• "Is Emmental Cheese and Maasdam Cheese the same?"
• "How does Emmental Cheese compare to Maasdam Cheese cheese?"
• "How does the taste of Emmental Cheese compare to Maasdam Cheese?"
• "Is Emmental Cheese or Maasdam Cheese better?"

Emmental Cheese Overview

Emmental is a classic Swiss cheese, known for its large holes and nutty, mild flavor. It is made from cow's milk and has a hard, dense texture. The holes, or "eyes," develop during the fermentation process as a result of gas released by the bacteria in the cheese. Emmental is often used in sandwiches and is a key ingredient in traditional Swiss fondue.

Maasdam Cheese Overview

Maasdam cheese is the Dutch answer to Swiss cheeses, recognizable by its large holes and sweet, nutty flavor. It is made from cow's milk and has a semi-soft texture. Maasdam matures faster than other holey cheeses like Emmental, developing its distinctive flavor and appearance in just a few weeks.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Emmental Cheese comes from Switzerland. Maasdam Cheese originated from Netherlands.

Certification

Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. Emmental Cheese has a PDO (2004). Maasdam is not a protected cheese.

Milk Type and Treatment

Emmental Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw. Maasdam Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized.

Composition and Texture

Emmental Cheese has a fat content of minimum of 45% (dry matter). Emmental's texture can be described as "hard or medium-hard". Maasdam's texture can be described as "semi-hard".

Taste and Aroma

Emmental Cheese has a nutty, sweet taste. Maasdam Cheese has a nutty, sweet taste.

Appearance and Aging

Emmental Cheese's appearance is colored yellow , is available in round loaves and is aged 4 months to over 1 year . Maasdam Cheese has a color of pale yellow .

Ranking

Emmental is ranked #16 out of 996 types based on community views. Maasdam is ranked #36 out of 996 types based on community views.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a hard or medium-hard cheese, go for Emmental. But if you enjoy a semi-hard consistency, Maasdam might be the better pick. Emmental has a nutty, sweet taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Maasdam offers a nutty, sweet profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Emmental Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Maasdam Cheese to Other Cheeses