Gouda to Leyden: 7 Top Dutch Cheese Varieties

Dutch cheese is one of the most popular and widely enjoyed cheeses in the world. With a rich and storied history dating back centuries, it is no surprise that the Dutch have perfected the art of cheese making. From the tangy and sharp flavours of aged Gouda to the nutty and creamy textures of Edam, there is a Dutch cheese for every palate. In this article, we will explore the many varieties of Dutch cheese, their unique characteristics, and the best ways to enjoy them. Whether you are a cheese aficionado or simply a lover of all things dairy, get ready to discover the wonders of Dutch cheese.

Gouda

Gouda cheese is made from cow's milk and is traditionally produced in round wheels that can range in size from small to large. The cheese is typically aged for between one and six months, although some aged varieties can be aged for up to two years. The longer the cheese is aged, the sharper its flavour becomes.

Gouda cheese is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is often used in sandwiches, melted on burgers or in grilled cheese sandwiches. It can also be eaten on its own or served as a snack with crackers or fruit. The cheese pairs well with wine, beer and a variety of other beverages.

Edam

Edam cheese is a semi-hard Dutch cheese known for its mild and nutty flavour. This cheese has a smooth and firm texture, making it a versatile option for various dishes. Edam cheese is often wax-coated and has a pale-yellow interior, with a distinctive red rind. The flavour of Edam cheese is mellow and subtle, making it a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with a wide range of accompaniments, including crackers, fruits, and nuts. Its texture is firm, but not hard, and it melts beautifully when heated, making it a perfect addition to sandwiches and grilled cheese. Overall, Edam cheese is a great option for those who prefer a milder cheese flavour and a cheese that can be enjoyed in various ways.

Leyden

Leyden cheese, originating from the Netherlands, is a semi-hard cheese that is typically made from cow's milk. It is known for its distinctive flavour, which is a combination of nutty and slightly spicy notes. The texture of Leyden cheese is firm and crumbly, with occasional small holes throughout.

This unique cheese is often enjoyed on its own or as a snack, but it also pairs well with a variety of foods. It is particularly delicious when served alongside crackers or bread, and its firm texture makes it an ideal cheese for grating over salads or pasta dishes. Additionally, Leyden cheese is a great option for adding a bold and tangy flavour to your favourite sandwiches.

For those looking for a wine pairing, Leyden cheese pairs well with a variety of red wines, including Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Alternatively, for those who prefer white wine, a crisp and acidic Sauvignon Blanc is a great option to balance out the bold flavours of the cheese.

Maasdam

Maasdam cheese is a semi-hard, nutty cheese that is similar in texture to Swiss cheese, but with a slightly sweet, buttery flavour. The cheese has a distinctive appearance with large, irregularly shaped holes, also known as "eyes," which are formed during the maturing process.

Maasdam cheese has a mild and nutty flavour, which makes it a great addition to a cheeseboard or sandwich. The cheese has a smooth and creamy texture, which pairs well with crisp fruits, such as apples or grapes. It is also a great melting cheese, making it ideal for grilled cheese sandwiches or as a topping for burgers or pizzas.

When serving Maasdam cheese, it is best to bring it to room temperature for optimal flavour and texture. It can be served on its own, as part of a cheese platter, or paired with crackers, nuts, or sliced meats. The cheese also goes well with light-bodied white wines, such as Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc, or a light beer, such as a pilsner.

Boerenkaas

Boerenkaas is a traditional Dutch cheese made from raw cow's milk. The cheese is aged for a minimum of four months and has a firm texture with small holes. Boerenkaas has a rich, nutty flavour with hints of caramel and butterscotch. It has a creamy and slightly crumbly texture that melts in your mouth. This cheese is ideal for snacking, grating, or as a table cheese. Boerenkaas pairs well with a glass of red wine, fresh fruits like grapes, and crackers or crusty bread. It also works well in sandwiches, grilled cheese, and as a topping for salads. This cheese is a must-try for all cheese lovers who enjoy a rich and complex flavour profile.

Beemster

Beemster cheese is a premium Dutch cheese that is made using traditional techniques and matured for several months. It has a distinct, nutty flavour and a creamy, smooth texture that makes it a favourite among cheese lovers. The cheese is named after the Beemster Polder, a region in the Netherlands known for its fertile land and lush green pastures.

Beemster cheese is made using fresh cow's milk, which is pasteurized and coagulated using rennet. The curds are then cut and pressed, and the cheese is aged for at least 18 months. During the ageing process, the cheese develops a rich, complex flavour that is both sweet and savoury. It has a dense, slightly crumbly texture that is perfect for slicing or grating.

Beemster cheese pairs well with a variety of foods, including crusty bread, fresh fruit, and charcuterie. It also complements many different types of wine, particularly full-bodied reds like Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz. For a delicious snack, try slicing Beemster cheese and serving it with crackers or toasted bread. It can also be melted over burgers, sandwiches, or roasted vegetables for a delicious twist on classic dishes.

Frisian Clove

Frisian Clove, also known as Nagelkaas in Dutch, is a unique cheese variety hailing from the Friesland region of the Netherlands. This cheese is infused with cloves, which lend it a distinctive aroma and flavour.

The texture of Frisian Clove is semi-hard and crumbly, with small pieces of cloves dispersed throughout the cheese. The taste of this cheese is nutty, with a slightly spicy and sweet flavour from the cloves. The aroma is pungent, with a strong scent of cloves.

Frisian Clove is a versatile cheese and can be paired with many different foods. It pairs well with dark breads, such as rye or pumpernickel, as well as fruits like grapes or pears. This cheese is also a great addition to a cheese platter, as it adds a unique flavour and texture to the selection. It can be paired with other cheeses, such as Gouda or Edam, or with cured meats like salami or prosciutto.