Edam cheese, a very popular semi-hard cheese, originated in the town of Edam in the Netherlands.
With a mellow yet delightful blend of nutty and creamy undertones, this cheese also has a salty finish and is enjoyed in various ways and recipes, paired with different foods, dishes, and wines.
Let us dive right into it and get you all that you need to know about Edam cheese!
Overview and History of Edam Cheese
Produced in the Netherlands since as early as the Middle Ages, Edam cheese is a creamy golden delight that people now enjoy throughout the world and in a variety of international cuisines.
For example, in Mexico, people have been cutting Edam cheese into balls and stuffing it with meat and seasonings to make delicious staples.
Edam cheese has also traveled to the likes of Slovakia and the Czech Republic, where after being battered in breadcrumbs, it is fried in hot oil.
Is Edam Cheese Gluten-Free?
Traditionally, Edam cheese is produced entirely free of any preservatives or additives, therefore making it entirely gluten-free. However, please also note that due to the addition of animal rennet during its production, vegetarians should probably avoid Edam cheese.
Either way, always check the labels for all ingredients to be on the safe side.
What are the Calories in Edam Cheese?
For every 100 grams of Edam cheese, there are approximately 357 calories.
While this does make Edam cheese comparatively healthier than a lot of cheeses, especially semi-hard cheeses, it is always advised to consume it in moderation.
Traditionally made using full and skimmed milk, Edam cheese is definitely lower in fat than most other hard cheeses.
Can You Freeze Edam Cheese?
Yes! Edam cheese, like most other natural cheeses, can be frozen successfully from six weeks to as long as two months or even more. However, to ensure proper freezing, you must store the cheese extremely carefully and properly in the freezer.
More on this in the next section! But yes, Edam cheese generally holds up quite well in the freezer.
Here is a helpful and thorough video guide to show you all that you need to know about freezing cheese –
How Long Does Edam Cheese Last?
If stored properly and carefully using the right materials, Edam cheese, once opened, can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 weeks. In the freezer, it will last a few months. Be sure to check the “Best by” on the label always.
If unopened but still kept in the fridge, Edam cheese will last for around a week past that date.
How to Store Edam Cheese?
The most important thing is to keep your Edam cheese in the fridge at all times. Even after being opened, it is advised that you wrap the cheese in the original packaging again with either aluminum foil or cling wrap very tightly and securely.
Another tip is to wrap the cheese nicely in some wax or parchment paper first. Then, you can cover it again with foil or film.
This is to ensure maximum protection of your cheese and also protection of other things in your fridge from the cheese!
Can Pets Eat Edam Cheese?
Yes! Unflavored cheeses such as Edam (and Cheddar and Gouda, among others), are excellent choices of cheese to feed your doggies. However, as always, it should always be given in small, moderate amounts – too much is never good.
Also, if your pet has renal issues or is lactose intolerant, avoid feeding them cheese and especially Edam cheese.
Best Substitutes for Edam Cheese
Gouda and Cheddar cheeses are two absolutely excellent substitutes for Edam cheese. Lots of semi-hard cheeses offer similar qualities but also add a touch of their unique properties.
Springy and dense in its texture, Gouda cheese boasts creamy and sweet undertones and has delightful notes of soft butter and hazelnut.
Cheddar cheese, on the other hand, is a sharper choice when compared to Edam.
Here is a video on all that you need to know about Gouda cheese in case you are considering it as a substitute:
Best Wine Pairing with Edam Cheese
A variety of drinks pair well with Edam cheese. Most notably, it would be best if you paired it with wines such as a Pinot Gris, a Pinot Noir, a Riesling, a Chardonnay or a Shiraz, or even champagne.
You can refer to this excellent video guide to learn more about how to pair wines with cheeses:
Best Recipes to Prepare with Edam Cheese
Edam cheese is known for being a delicious melting cheese – making it excellent to be used in various dishes, including potato dishes, pasta, casseroles, and even sandwiches.
It is popularly also consumed with fruits such as apricots, melons, peaches, and cherries, when in the early stages.
Aged Edam cheese goes particularly well with apples and pears. Crackers and biscuits are also excellent when complemented with Edam cheese.
Here is a recipe guide on how to make the perfect Edam cheese sandwich to wow your loved ones:
FAQ
Edam cheese can be allowed to age for up to 1 year or even more. The taste intensifies as it ages.
Edam cheese is actually lower in fat content than most other cheeses. This also makes the cheese softer than most of its counterparts. Hence, while it is still a comparatively healthy cheese, it is always advised to consume in moderation.
Edam cheese features a somewhat springy texture while still in its youth. As it is aged, along with the flavor and taste intensifying, it also displays a drier, crumblier consistency.
Summing Up
I hope this article gave you the information you needed on Edam cheese! Go ahead and enjoy this Dutch delicacy with your loved ones.
If you think you have anything to add to this, don’t hesitate to drop a comment and get in touch with us!
Do share this article with other cheese enthusiasts, and spread the cheese – I mean, cheer!