Maasdam Cheese vs Taleggio Cheese

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

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

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.

Taleggio Cheese Overview

Taleggio is a semi-soft, washed-rind cheese from the Lombardy region of Italy. It has a strong aroma but a surprisingly mild, fruity, and slightly tangy flavor with a creamy texture that becomes more pronounced as the cheese ages. Taleggio is excellent for melting and is often used in risottos or on polenta.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Maasdam Cheese comes from Netherlands. Taleggio Cheese originated from Italy.

Certification

Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. Maasdam is not a protected cheese. Taleggio Cheese has a PDO (1996).

Milk Type and Treatment

Maasdam Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized. Taleggio Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically heated.

Composition and Texture

Maasdam's texture can be described as "semi-hard". Taleggio's texture can be described as "soft, slightly melting under the rind, firmer towards the center".

Taste and Aroma

Maasdam Cheese has a nutty, sweet taste. Taleggio Cheese has a sweet, delicate, slightly sour taste. Taleggio's aroma can be described as "herbaceous, aromatic".

Appearance and Aging

Maasdam Cheese's appearance is colored pale yellow . Taleggio Cheese has a color of pinkish-red rind, white to straw yellow inside , comes in square, 7–8 inches wide, 1.5–3 inches high, 3.7–4.8 pounds weight and has an aging period of at least 35 (up to 50) days .

Rind and Rennet Type

Taleggio Cheese's rind is described as soft, thin, pinkish-red , with calf rennet.

Ranking

Maasdam is ranked #34 out of 996 types based on community views. Taleggio is ranked #41 out of 996 types based on community views.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a semi-hard cheese, go for Maasdam. But if you enjoy a soft, slightly melting under the rind, firmer towards the center consistency, Taleggio might be the better pick. Maasdam has a nutty, sweet taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Taleggio offers a sweet, delicate, slightly sour profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Maasdam Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Taleggio Cheese to Other Cheeses