Edam 101: Nutrition, Benefits, How To Use, Buy, Store | Edam Cheese: A Complete Guide

What is Edam

Edam cheese comes from the Netherlands and is famous for its round shape and light yellow color inside. It’s made from cow’s milk and has a gentle, nutty taste. You’ll often see it covered in red or yellow wax, which not only looks nice but also keeps the cheese fresh and stops it from drying out.

The texture of Edam cheese is semi-hard, and it can be aged for different amounts of time. When it’s young, Edam is softer with a mild flavor. As it ages, it gets firmer and its taste becomes stronger. People love to use Edam cheese in snacks, sandwiches, salads, and as a cheese to eat on its own. It’s also great for melting, so you can use it in cooking and baking too.

Other Names of Edam

Edam cheese is primarily known by its name, but in some regions or contexts, it might be referred to by other names. Here are a few alternative names or terms that might be used for Edam cheese:

1. Queso de Bola: In some Spanish-speaking regions, Edam is known as “Queso de Bola,” which translates to “Ball Cheese,” referring to its characteristic round shape.
2. Dutch Cheese: Edam is often simply referred to as “Dutch cheese,” acknowledging its origin in the Netherlands.
3. Fromage d’Edam: In French-speaking areas, it might be referred to as “Fromage d’Edam.”
4. Edammer: This term is sometimes used to describe Edam cheese, particularly in Germany and some other European countries.

These variations in names often depend on the language and local customs of the regions where Edam is consumed or sold. However, the name “Edam” is the most widely recognized internationally.

Nutritional Value of Edam

Here is a general overview of the nutritional value of Edam cheese per 100 grams:

Nutrient	Amount per 100g
Calories	357 kcal
Protein	24.99 g
Fat	27.80 g
Saturated fat	17.75 g
Monounsaturated fat	8.08 g
Polyunsaturated fat	0.84 g
Carbohydrates	0.00 g
Sugar	0.00 g
Fiber	0.0 g
Cholesterol	104 mg
Calcium	731 mg
Iron	0.19 mg
Magnesium	22 mg
Phosphorus	452 mg
Potassium	98 mg
Sodium	660 mg
Zinc	3.75 mg
Vitamin C	0.0 mg
Vitamin B6	0.057 mg
Vitamin B12	1.05 µg
Vitamin A	315 IU
Vitamin D	24 IU

Benefits of Edam

Edam cheese offers several nutritional perks, just like other dairy products. Here are some reasons why enjoying Edam cheese in moderation can be good for you:

Packed with Protein: Edam is a great source of protein, which helps repair and maintain your body’s tissues. It also helps in making enzymes and hormones.

Rich in Calcium: Edam is loaded with calcium, a vital mineral that helps build and keep your bones and teeth strong. Getting enough calcium is really important for bone health.

Full of Vitamins and Minerals: Edam cheese contains a mix of vitamins and minerals like vitamin B12, zinc, phosphorus, and magnesium. These nutrients play important roles in keeping your body functioning well.

Has Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA): Some research suggests that Edam and certain other cheeses might have small amounts of CLA, a type of fatty acid that has possible health benefits.

Helps with Feeling Full and Weight Control: The protein and fat in Edam can make you feel full, which can help you eat less. Having a bit of cheese in a balanced diet might help some people manage their weight.

Provides Healthy Fats: Edam has saturated fats, but it also has monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are better for your heart.

Great for Cooking: Edam cheese melts well, making it a versatile ingredient for many recipes. You can use it in sandwiches, salads, pasta dishes, and more.

Remember, even though Edam cheese has these nutritional benefits, it’s best to eat it in moderation, especially if you have dietary restrictions or health issues. Everyone’s nutritional needs are different, so it’s a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized advice on your diet.

Varieties of Edam

While classic Edam is the most popular type, there are various versions of Edam cheese, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some different varieties and types of Edam cheese you might come across:

Young Edam: This is the fresh and mild version of Edam. It’s aged for a shorter time, making it softer with a creamy taste.

Aged Edam: As Edam cheese matures, it becomes firmer and has a stronger flavor. Aged Edam can be crumbly and has a nutty taste compared to the younger type.

Smoked Edam: Some Edam cheeses are smoked to give them a smoky flavor. People love the unique taste of smoked Edam, and it can be used in all sorts of dishes.

Low-Fat Edam: For those watching their fat intake, there’s a low-fat version of Edam cheese. It has less fat but still keeps the classic Edam taste and texture.

Herb-Infused Edam: Sometimes, Edam cheese is flavored with herbs or spices like basil, thyme, or garlic. This adds extra flavors and makes the cheese even more delicious.

Reduced Sodium Edam: If you’re trying to cut down on salt, there are Edam cheeses with less sodium. This is good for people on a low-salt diet.

Organic Edam: Some producers make organic Edam cheese using milk from cows raised without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. This type of Edam follows organic farming methods.

When you’re picking out Edam cheese, it’s fun to try different varieties to see which flavors and textures you like best. Just remember, the types of Edam cheese available can vary depending on where you are and what the producer makes.

What Does Edam Taste Like

Edam cheese has a gentle, nutty taste that gets stronger as it ages. Let’s look at how the flavor and texture of Edam change as it matures:

Young Edam (Fresh): When Edam is young, it has a mild and slightly sweet flavor. The cheese is smooth and firm, making it easy to slice. It’s a great choice for people who like a cheese that’s not too strong.

Aged Edam: As Edam cheese gets older, it develops a deeper, nuttier taste. The texture becomes firmer, and the flavor becomes more complex. Aged Edam might also have a hint of saltiness. As it ages, the cheese forms small crystals that give it a nice crunch.

Smoked Edam: Smoked Edam has an extra smoky flavor because it’s smoked during the making process. The intensity of the smoky taste can vary, but it generally adds a rich and complex flavor to the cheese.

Herb-Infused Edam: When Edam is flavored with herbs or spices like basil, thyme, or garlic, it takes on those additional flavors. These herbs can enhance the natural nutty taste of the cheese.

Overall, Edam cheese is loved for its versatility and its ability to please many different tastes. Its mild and friendly flavor makes it perfect for a variety of dishes, from snacks and sandwiches to cooking and melting in recipes. The wax coating on the outside of Edam helps keep the cheese moist and protects it, giving it that smooth and consistent texture we all enjoy.

How Edam is Made

Edam cheese is a semi-hard cheese traditionally made from cow’s milk. Here’s a simple overview of the steps involved in making Edam cheese:

Milk Collection and Prep:

• Fresh cow’s milk is gathered from local dairy farms.
• The milk is warmed to about 32-35°C (89-95°F) to prepare it for fermentation.

Curdling:

• Starter cultures, which are special bacteria that help ferment the milk, are added. These cultures give the cheese its unique flavor and texture.
• Rennet, an enzyme, is added to make the milk curdle. This makes the milk thicken and form curds.

Cutting and Cooking the Curds:

• The curds are cut into small pieces to separate them from the whey.
• The curds are then heated to help separate them even more from the whey.

Molding:

• Once the curds are ready, they’re put into round molds, giving Edam its distinctive shape.

Pressing:

• The curds in the molds are pressed to remove more whey and make the cheese firm.

Salting:

• The pressed cheese is either soaked in a salty brine or dry-salted to add flavor and help preserve the cheese. This also helps form the cheese’s rind.

Coating:

• Edam cheese is coated with a layer of paraffin or colored wax. This coating keeps the cheese moist, protects it while it ages, and gives Edam its recognizable look.

Aging:

• The cheese is moved to a controlled environment to age. Some Edam cheeses are sold when they’re still young, while others are aged longer to get a firmer texture and richer flavor.

Packaging:

• After aging, the cheese is packaged and ready to be sold.

It’s good to remember that different factors like the type of milk, specific cultures used, and aging conditions can give Edam cheese different flavors and textures. Also, modern methods might have some differences compared to traditional ways of making Edam cheese.

How To Use Edam

Here are some tasty ways to use Edam cheese in your meals and snacks:

Snacking:

• Enjoy a slice of Edam cheese with crackers, fruits, or nuts for a quick and tasty snack.

Sandwiches:

• Add Edam to your sandwiches or wraps. It goes great with cold cuts, veggies, and your favorite condiments.

Cheese Platters:

• Put Edam cheese on a cheese platter or charcuterie board. Mix it with other cheeses, cured meats, fruits, and nuts for a delicious and attractive spread.

Salads:

• Cube or grate Edam to sprinkle on salads. It adds a creamy and tasty touch to both green salads and pasta salads.

Cheese and Fruit Pairing:

• Pair Edam cheese with fresh or dried fruits. Its mild flavor goes perfectly with fruits like apples, pears, and grapes.

Melting:

• Edam melts nicely, so it’s perfect for topping sandwiches, burgers, or using in hot dishes like casseroles and baked pasta.

Cheese Fondue:

• Use Edam in a cheese fondue. Its melting ability and mild taste make it a great choice for this classic dish.

Cheese Sauce:

• Melt Edam to make a smooth cheese sauce. Drizzle it over veggies, pasta, or use it as a dip for bread and snacks.

Grilled Cheese Sandwiches:

• Make a tasty grilled cheese sandwich with Edam. Mix it with other cheeses or add in some ham, turkey, or veggies for extra flavor.

Cheese and Crackers:

• Serve Edam cheese with a variety of crackers for a simple and delicious appetizer. Add some chutney or preserves for a sweet and savory touch.

Cooking and Baking:

• Use Edam in recipes like quiches, omelets, and savory pastries. Its melting quality is great for dishes that need that ooey-gooey cheese texture.

Stuffed Dishes:

• Stuff chicken breasts, mushrooms, or peppers with Edam cheese. It adds a creamy and tasty element to the dish.

Feel free to get creative and try new ways to use Edam cheese in your cooking. Whether you’re enjoying it by itself or using it in a recipe, Edam’s mild and adaptable flavor makes it a favorite in many kitchens.

Substitute for Edam

If you’re looking for a substitute for Edam cheese in a recipe, it’s helpful to consider the characteristics of Edam, which include a mild flavor and good melting properties. Here are a few cheeses that you can consider as substitutes for Edam:

1. Gouda: Gouda is a Dutch cheese like Edam and shares a similar mild and nutty flavor. It also has good melting qualities, making it a suitable replacement in recipes where Edam is melted.
2. Mild Cheddar: Mild cheddar cheese has a mild flavor and a smooth texture. While it might be a bit sharper than Edam, it can work well as a substitute, especially in dishes that involve melting.
3. Mozzarella: Mozzarella has excellent melting properties and a mild flavor, making it a versatile option. It is commonly used in pizza, lasagna, and other dishes that require melted cheese.
4. Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese has a nutty and slightly sweet flavor. While it has a different texture than Edam, it can be a good substitute in recipes where the mild flavor is key.
5. Havarti: Havarti is a semi-soft Danish cheese with a mild and creamy taste. It melts well, making it suitable for dishes like sandwiches, grilled cheese, or melted cheese dips.
6. Muenster: Muenster cheese has a mild flavor and good melting characteristics. It can be used as a substitute for Edam in various recipes, especially those that involve melting or baking.
7. Fontina: Fontina is a semi-soft Italian cheese with a mild and nutty flavor. It melts well, making it suitable for dishes like fondues, casseroles, or stuffed recipes.

When substituting cheeses, keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly, so choose a substitute based on the specific requirements of your recipe and personal preferences. Additionally, it’s a good idea to taste the substitute cheese on its own to ensure it complements the dish you’re preparing.

Where to Buy Edam

Edam cheese is widely available and can be purchased from various places, including:

1. Local Grocery Stores: Most well-stocked supermarkets and grocery stores carry Edam cheese. You can find it in the cheese section, usually near other types of cheeses.
2. Specialty Cheese Shops: Specialty cheese shops or delis that focus on a variety of cheeses may offer a selection of Edam, including different ages and varieties.
3. Cheese Counters: Many supermarkets have dedicated cheese counters or sections where you can find a variety of cheeses, including Edam. Some stores may even allow you to sample before purchasing.
4. Online Retailers: Numerous online retailers specialize in selling cheeses, and Edam is often available for purchase. Websites and online marketplaces can provide a convenient option, especially if you’re looking for specific varieties or aged Edam.
5. Wholesale Clubs: Stores like Costco or Sam’s Club, which sell items in bulk, often have a selection of cheeses, including Edam.
6. Farmers’ Markets: In some areas, local farmers’ markets or artisanal food markets may feature vendors who sell handmade cheeses, including Edam.
7. International or Ethnic Grocery Stores: Stores that specialize in international or Dutch products are likely to carry Edam cheese. These stores may offer a variety of Edam options.
8. Cheese Festivals or Events: If you happen to attend a cheese festival or food event, you may find vendors selling Edam cheese along with other varieties.

When purchasing Edam, you can choose from different ages and varieties, such as young Edam, aged Edam, smoked Edam, or herb-infused Edam. Check the labels or ask the store staff for information on the specific characteristics of the Edam cheese they offer.

How To Store Edam

Proper storage is key to keeping your Edam cheese fresh and tasty. Here are some easy tips on how to store Edam cheese:

Refrigeration:

• Always keep Edam cheese in the fridge to slow down the aging and avoid it from going bad.
• Use the original packaging to store the cheese or wrap it well in plastic wrap or foil. If the original packaging is torn or damaged, it’s best to put the cheese in a new airtight wrap.

Temperature:

• Store Edam cheese in the fridge at a steady temperature, ideally between 34°F to 38°F (1°C to 3°C).
• Try not to keep the cheese in the fridge door where temperatures can change more often.

Humidity:

• Cheese likes a bit of moisture, so it’s good to keep it in a place with moderate humidity. If you have a cheese drawer, that’s perfect. If not, you can put a damp paper towel in the container with the cheese to help keep it moist.

Isolation:

• Keep Edam cheese away from strong-smelling foods in the fridge to avoid it picking up any unwanted smells.

Wax Coating:

• If your Edam cheese has a wax coating, it’s already somewhat protected. Still, make sure to store it in a cool, dry part of the fridge.

Avoid Freezing:

• Freezing can change the texture of Edam cheese, making it crumbly. It’s best not to freeze it unless you plan to use the cheese in cooked dishes where the texture change won’t be a problem.

Airtight Container for Leftovers:

• If you’ve cut into the Edam cheese and have some leftovers, keep them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil.

Check for Mold:

• Before eating, check the cheese for any mold. If you see any, just trim off the affected part and use the rest. Sometimes mold can form on the surface, especially if the cheese has been exposed to air.

By following these simple storage tips, you can make sure your Edam cheese stays fresh and tasty for longer. Just remember, the exact storage recommendations might vary a bit depending on the specific type of Edam cheese you have, so it’s always a good idea to check the packaging for any extra instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Edam