Edam Cheese

A firm, yellow-colored cheese that provides a slightly sweet and mildly nutty flavor. If authentically made, its taste may be somewhat salty. Most of the Edam produced today has a mild bland flavor. The cheese is produced from skimmed or semi-skimmed pasteurized cow's milk, resulting in a fat content of 30 to 40%. It is formed into balls that are coated in a jacket of red, yellow or black wax used for exporting or a natural rind when sold locally. Edam is similar to Gouda, but it is not quite as creamy and its texture is a bit dryer. The cheese is generally sold as a young cheese, but is available as a stronger, firmer aged cheese ranging from 8 months to over a year in age. Much of the Edam cheese is produced in Holland where it originated. Edam is also produced in Argentina, but it has a slightly different flavor and texture than Dutch Edam. This cheese can be served as a breakfast cheese, an appetizer, a snack, or as a cheese used in cooking.