Edam (cheese)

Edam is a semi-hard cheese that originated from the Netherlands, specifically from the town of Edam in the province of North Holland. It is traditionally sold in rounded cylinders with a pale yellow interior and a coat of red paraffin wax.

History

Edam cheese has a rich history dating back to the 14th century. It gained popularity due to its long shelf-life and its ability to age well, making it a favored choice for long sea voyages. The cheese was named after the town of Edam, which was a significant port for cheese export in the 14th and 15th centuries.

Production

Edam cheese is made from partially skimmed milk, making it lower in fat than many other cheeses. The process involves heating the milk and adding a culture to start the fermentation process. Rennet is then added to coagulate the milk, forming curds. The curds are cut, heated, and pressed into round molds. The cheese is then soaked in a brine solution which gives it its characteristic flavor and helps to preserve it. After this, the cheese is coated in wax and allowed to age.

Characteristics

Edam cheese is known for its mild, slightly salty flavor and smooth, creamy texture. It has a pale yellow color and is typically covered in a distinctive red or yellow wax. This wax coating helps to prevent the cheese from drying out and allows it to age without losing its quality. Edam cheese is often served with fruits, on sandwiches, or used in cooking.

Varieties

There are several varieties of Edam cheese, including:

• Baby Edam: A smaller version of the traditional Edam cheese.
• Aged Edam: This variety is allowed to age for a longer period, resulting in a firmer texture and stronger flavor.
• Smoked Edam: This variety is smoked over wood chips to give it a unique flavor.

Nutritional Value

Edam cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, and also provides a significant amount of vitamin B2 and vitamin B12. Despite being lower in fat than many other cheeses, it is still high in saturated fat and should be eaten in moderation.

See Also

• List of Dutch cheeses
• Cheese making
• Dutch cuisine