Maasdam cheese

A semi-hard Dutch cheese

A wheel of Maasdam cheese

Maasdam cheese is a semi-hard cheese originating from the Netherlands. It is known for its distinctive appearance, with large holes or "eyes" similar to those found in Swiss cheese. Maasdam is a popular cheese both in the Netherlands and internationally, appreciated for its mild, nutty flavor and smooth texture.

History

Maasdam cheese was developed in the 1980s as a Dutch alternative to Emmental cheese, which is a traditional Swiss cheese. The goal was to create a cheese that could mature faster than Emmental while still having a similar taste and texture. The name "Maasdam" is derived from the village of Maasdam in the province of South Holland.

Production

Maasdam cheese is made from cow's milk and is typically aged for about four to 12 weeks. The cheese is produced using a process similar to that of other Alpine cheeses, involving the use of bacterial cultures that produce carbon dioxide gas, which forms the characteristic holes in the cheese.

Ingredients

The primary ingredients in Maasdam cheese include:

• Cow's milk
• Rennet
• Salt
• Bacterial cultures

Aging Process

The cheese is aged in a controlled environment where temperature and humidity are carefully monitored. During the aging process, the cheese develops its characteristic flavor and texture. The holes in the cheese are formed as a result of the gas produced by the bacterial cultures.

Characteristics

Close-up of Maasdam cheese showing its characteristic holes

Maasdam cheese is pale yellow in color and has a smooth, creamy texture. It is known for its sweet, nutty flavor, which is milder than that of Emmental. The cheese has a slightly elastic texture and is easy to slice, making it ideal for sandwiches and snacks.

Uses

Maasdam cheese is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. It is commonly used in:

• Sandwiches
• Salads
• Cheese platters
• Fondue

The cheese melts well, making it suitable for use in cooked dishes such as casseroles and gratins.

Related pages

• Cheese
• Emmental cheese
• Dutch cuisine
• Swiss cheese