Edam

Edam is a semi hard cheese made out of the milk of cows as well as goats from Holland. It comes in rounds with red colored rind due to the coating of red paraffin wax and pale yellow colored core containing spores in between. The flavor of the cheese varies according to age and typically the more mature one possesses strong flavors.

History of Edam Cheese and Cuisines Using It

The cheese has been popular since the 14th as well as 15th centuries particularly during sea voyages as it matured well to be preserved for eating during long journeys. It was made using whole milk and possessed strong flavor unlike the present cheese production beginning since 19th century which uses partially skimmed milk.

Cuisines

In the Czech republic as well as Slovakia the cheese is served as a snack along with a ham slice and tartar sauce or mayonnaise. In Philippines the cheese is called quesa de bola and is commonly used in Christmas meals where it is served alongside hamon at midnight.

Preparation,  and Culinary Uses of Edam Cheese

The contemporary Edam is made out of fat reduced milk of cows that is pasteurized using lactic starter. Thereafter the whey present in the curdled milk is drained out to which salt is added and stirred. The cheese is aged for about 17 weeks and a well aged one is coated with black wax. The orange or red coating of wax appears on cheeses that are aged for about 4 to 8 weeks.

Culinary Uses

The cheese particularly-the well ripe one is mixed or served with fruits such as melons, cherries, apricots and peaches. Edam is spread over crackers and bread and goes with many wines such as Pinot gris dry Riesling, Champagne Chardonnay, semidry Riesling and Shiraz/Syrah.

The cheese can be used in many recipes including bread, crisps, fritters, sticks, cheese soups, cheese sauces and melted on toppings.

Edam Cheese Storing Tips and their Nutritive Worth

The cheese lasts long enough in good conditions even without the need for refrigeration. However when removed out of its package, the cheese must be covered to prevent drying. Also it must not be exposed to hot temperatures or sunlight as it may get spoilt.

The cheese is low in fat and rich in phosphorous, sodium and calcium. It contains certain amounts of essential nutrients of choline, retinum and Vitamin A.

Popular Edam Recipes and Trivia Associated with the Cheese

• Edam and Salmon Omelette Wraps, Edam Haddock Mussel and Bacon Chowder and Twice Baked Edam Soufflés are common soups and appetizer recipes using the cheese.

• Marinated Edam Salad, Edam Bean Burgers with Tomato Relish, Edam Bean Burgers with Tomato Relish, Butternut Squash and Edam Gratin with Sage and Sweet Red Onion and Edam Tart are a few common main dishes using the cheese.

Trivia

The Friesland Foods company from Netherlands is the leading producer of the cheese. The Churny company in the US which is a subsidiary of Kraft foods sells this cheese under the May-buy brand.

There are many literary and cultural references to Edam.