Copy the URL to share this page:
Get ready to say cheese in more ways than one! The Dutch are serious about their cheese, and you can savor your way through gouda, edam, or any of the other melt-in-your-mouth varieties. Find yourself a cozy cheese shop or market stall, and don't forget to ask for samples!
Dutch cheese features a rich, creamy texture with flavors that can range from mild and buttery to sharp and nutty, depending on the aging process. Some varieties may have herby or spicy notes, particularly those infused with additional spices.
Dutch cheese has roots that trace back to the Middle Ages, with the Netherlands becoming a central hub for cheese production. The art of cheesemaking flourished in regions like North Holland due to favorable climates for dairy farming and the abundant grasslands. Varieties like Gouda were named after the town of Gouda, which historically hosted cheese markets. Factors such as trade and agricultural advancements shaped the production techniques, while cultural exchanges with neighboring countries influenced flavors and styles. Today, it remains an integral part of Dutch culture and identity, often celebrated in festivals and local markets.
The Netherlands is home to over 1,800 different cheese varieties, showcasing an incredible range from creamy to aged, flavored to traditional. Each region has its specialties, contributing to the country's rich cheese heritage.
In some parts of the Netherlands, locals partake in unique cheese rolling competitions, where wheels of cheese are rolled down hills, and participants race to catch them. This quirky tradition adds to the joy and community spirit around cheese.
The town of Gouda hosts a famous cheese market that dates back to the 18th century, where cheese traders and buyers still gather every Thursday in summer. Tourists flock to this event to witness traditional trading practices and enjoy samples.
Dutch cheeses can be aged anywhere from a few months to several years. The aging process intensifies flavors and alters textures, making older cheeses incredibly sought after for their complexity and richness.