How can I choose the best Edam cheese?
Edam cheese traditionally comes from the Netherlands and is similar to Gouda, another Dutch product. Both are named for cities in which they come and are made of cow's milk, although Edam cheese is made of park milk and tastes a little sharper and tanger than Gouda. Edam is widely available in many parts of the world, while some other countries produce their own versions, although some experts believe they are lower in taste and quality. Edam is usually young cheese, only a few months old, but there are some varieties that have a sharper and more intense taste. For those who really do the best selection, the cheese shop or Deli with informed and useful staff can be the best place to taste and buy Edam cheese.
One of the best ways to choose high quality Edam cheese is to learn as much as possible about how to make it. The cheese was originally made in the city of Edam, in the northernParts of the Netherlands, but production has spread throughout the country and even to other parts of the world. Many companies automated Edam's production at the age of 60, which they believe have destroyed the quality of cheese. However, there are still Dutch producers who advertise gourmet cheese, which retains the depth of the taste that the original version had. It is said that the milk used to come from cows that graze in the fields called damp Polders, which are unique to the Netherlands and give the cheese a distinctive taste.
Most Edam cheeses sold in the United States are young, with mild, slightly salty and walnut flavor and have immersed in a thick layer of red paraffin wax to help keep it. Some people may not like varieties submerged with wax because they can be too processed and prefer the type sold in Europe that maintains a natural look. Others may like a bright red color for its distinctive appearance and visual interest, which can add to the cheese tray.
As with many cheeses, the taste and texture of Edam cheese can be very different with age, so the choice of the best diversity can depend on the preferences of the individual. Most Edam cheeses are young, aged for only a few months and have a mild, slightly salty and walnut taste. The texture of this cheese is also good for melting. The older the cheese, the harder it becomes and the more intense the taste. Those who prefer sharp cheese may want to look for Aged Edam.