Gouda Cheese vs Rubens Cheese
Gouda Cheese is a solid and springy; smooth when young, firm and crumbly when aged cow-milk cheese from Netherlands, while Rubens Cheese is semi-soft and made from cow milk, originating in Belgium.
What Is Gouda Cheese?
Gouda is a yellow cow's milk cheese from the Netherlands, named after the city of Gouda in South Holland. It runs from young and elastic to old and hard, picking up a caramel sweetness and small crunchy crystals with age.
What Is Rubens Cheese?
Rubens is a semi-soft cheese from Belgium, made from cow's milk. It features a washed rind, which often gives it a slightly pungent aroma. The cheese has a creamy texture that is smooth and easy to slice. Its flavor is mild yet savory with a hint of nuttiness. The washed rind contributes to a subtle earthy taste, making it a pleasant choice for those who enjoy milder cheeses. Rubens pairs well with fresh fruits and crusty bread, and it can be a tasty addition to a cheese board.
What's the Difference Between Gouda Cheese and Rubens Cheese?
- Origin: Gouda Cheese (Netherlands), Rubens Cheese (Belgium)
- Texture: Gouda Cheese (solid and springy; smooth when young, firm and crumbly when aged), Rubens Cheese (semi-soft)
- Rind: Gouda Cheese (Durable), Rubens Cheese (washed)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Gouda Cheese | Rubens Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Netherlands | Belgium |
| Specific Origin | Southern Holland | — |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized or unpasteurized | — |
| Texture | Solid and springy; smooth when young, firm and crumbly when aged | Semi-soft |
| Rind | Durable | Washed |
| Aging | 4 weeks to 21 months | — |
| Taste | Sweet to nutty | — |
Taste Comparison: Does Gouda Cheese Taste Like Rubens Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Gouda Cheese for Rubens Cheese?
In most recipes, Gouda Cheese and Rubens Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over. Expect solid and springy; smooth when young, firm and crumbly when aged bite and body where the recipe calls for semi-soft.
Which Is Better, Gouda Cheese or Rubens Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a solid and springy; smooth when young, firm and crumbly when aged cheese, go with Gouda Cheese. For a semi-soft profile, Rubens Cheese is the better fit.
Which is your favorite?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gouda Cheese the same as Rubens Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Gouda Cheese originates in Netherlands, while Rubens Cheese comes from Belgium.
Is Gouda Cheese similar to Rubens Cheese?
Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.
Can I substitute Gouda Cheese for Rubens Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in bite and mouthfeel.
Does Gouda Cheese taste like Rubens Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Gouda Cheese made of?
Gouda Cheese is made from cow milk (pasteurized or unpasteurized). It's typically aged 4 weeks to 21 months. It originates in Netherlands.
What is Rubens Cheese made of?
Rubens Cheese is made from cow milk. It originates in Belgium.
Which should I choose, Gouda Cheese or Rubens Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Gouda Cheese is solid and springy; smooth when young, firm and crumbly when aged, while Rubens Cheese is semi-soft.