Edam Cheese – A Dutch Delight

The cheese Edam hails from the city of the same name in the Netherlands and is commonly referred to as “Dutch” cheese in Russia. It is considered a symbol of the Dutch cheese industry, and its shape remains unchanged, with a red “head” coated in paraffin oil. Every year, the city of Alkmaar holds a cheese market, where Edam cheese takes center stage, with its heads covering the entire city square. This cheese is perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Cheddar Cheese – An American Favorite

Cheddar cheese is one of the most popular in the world and was first made in America in 1851. It was originally made from sheep’s or goat’s milk but eventually, producers settled on using cow’s milk. Cheddar matures from 60 days to one year while wrapped in cloth and has a cylindrical shape weighing between 27 to 35 kilograms. It has a slightly nutty, slightly sour, and spicy taste.

Munster Cheese

Munster cheese originated from Alsace in France and is made from cow’s milk. According to legend, it was first made by Benedictine monks in the 7th century. The cheese got its name from the word “monastery.” Munster is a hard cheese with a flexible straw-colored dough and a low cylindrical shape. It has a strong odor and a spicy, piquant taste. In Alsace, it is a traditional addition to warm potatoes and is also used in salads and as a spicy snack. Tilsiter, livaro, and romadur are considered close relatives of Munster.

Parmesan Cheese – The King of Cheeses

Parmesan cheese is rightfully considered the king of cheeses and the cheese of kings. In Italy, it is known as Parmeggiano Reggiano. The cheese gets its name from the region near Parma where it is produced and has been known since 1364. Of all hard cheeses, Parmesan is the hardest, with only 32% fat in dry matter. There are several varieties of Parmesan made in Italy, each with a different preparation method, shape, and size. Cheesemakers test the quality of Parmesan cheese with a special hammer, determining if voids have formed by the sound. If there is a violation in consistency, the cheese drum is opened, and the cheese is grated, dried, and packaged for sale. Freshly grated Parmesan tastes different from packaged grated Parmesan. Parmesan can mature for up to 10 years or even longer and becomes more solid but does not lose its properties. It is often aged for three or four years and has a salty taste and a pleasant pungent aroma. Parmesan is mostly consumed grated and used as a side dish for pasta or to season various dishes. It is loved all over the world, and from the cream removed during its production, the soft cheese mascarpone is made. Parmesan and Grana are the leading Italian cheeses in terms of output, and Parmesan is sometimes substituted for Grana Padano, which is a variety of Grana. Parmesan, Grana Padano, and Grana are considered elite hard cheeses.

Ricotta Cheese

Ricotta cheese is rich in proteins, vitamins A and B, and zinc and has a very low percentage of fat compared to other varieties and is low in salt. It is made from whey and has a grainy texture, is white in color, and has a pleasant taste. It is used in salads and sweet desserts and is often added to pasta in Italy.

Cheese “Roquefort”

Roquefort cheese is made from sheep’s milk and is considered one of the most famous blue cheeses in the world. It originates from the Roquefort region in France, and has a rich and tangy flavor. The cheese is aged in caves and is known for its unique appearance, with veins of blue mold running through it. Roquefort is best enjoyed crumbled on top of salads or spread on crackers.

Cheese “Gouda”

Gouda cheese is a semi-hard cheese made from cow’s milk, originating from the Netherlands. It is one of the most widely recognized cheeses in the world and is known for its mild and nutty flavor. Gouda cheese can be enjoyed at any stage of its aging process, from young and mild to old and sharp. It can be used in sandwiches, melted on top of dishes, or simply enjoyed on its own.

Cheese “Brie”

Brie cheese is a soft cheese made from cow’s milk and originates from France. It is known for its creamy texture and mild, nutty flavor. Brie cheese is best enjoyed at room temperature and can be served with crackers, bread, or fruit. It is also often used in cooking, melted into sauces or added to dishes for a rich and creamy flavor.

Cheese “Emmental”

Emmental cheese, also known as Swiss cheese, is a type of hard cheese made from cow’s milk. It is known for its distinct large holes and nutty, sweet flavor. Emmental cheese is most commonly used in sandwiches and grilled cheese, but can also be enjoyed on its own.

In conclusion, there are many different types of cheeses in the world, each with its own unique flavor and history. Whether you prefer soft and creamy or hard and tangy, there is a cheese out there for everyone to enjoy.

Cheese “Feta”

Feta cheese is made from sheep’s and goat’s milk and is known for its dense cottage cheese-like consistency and its distinct salty, slightly sour taste. Authentic feta cheese is made in Greece, but Turkish, Bulgarian, Romanian, and Danish varieties are also of high quality. This cheese is often used in salads with olive oil, tomatoes, and cucumbers, making it a popular summer dish in many Mediterranean countries.