Vlaskaas

Vlaskaas is a traditional Dutch cheese that has been produced in the Netherlands for centuries. The name "Vlaskaas" translates to "flax cheese" in English, referring to the time of the year when the cheese was traditionally made, during the flax harvest.

History

Vlaskaas was originally produced only once a year, during the flax harvest season. The tradition of making this cheese dates back to 1746. It was almost forgotten until it was rediscovered in 2004 by the Dutch cheese producer Beemster. Since then, Beemster has been producing Vlaskaas all year round.

Production

Vlaskaas is made from pasteurized cow's milk. The milk is heated and combined with rennet, a natural enzyme, to separate the curds from the whey. The curds are then pressed into molds and aged for a minimum of five months. This aging process gives Vlaskaas its distinctive flavor and texture.

Characteristics

Vlaskaas has a creamy, slightly sweet flavor with a hint of nuttiness. It has a firm, smooth texture that is slightly crumbly. The cheese is a pale yellow color, and it is typically sold in wheels or wedges. Vlaskaas is often enjoyed on its own, but it can also be used in cooking or paired with wine.

See also

• List of Dutch cheeses
• Beemster
• Dutch cuisine