What is Edam?
A mild, approachable semi-hard cow’s milk cheese from the Netherlands, produced in distinctive flattened spheres with a pale yellow interior and, in export versions, a characteristic red wax coating. Lower in fat than Gouda, typically 28–40% fat in dry matter. Edam Holland has held PGI status since 2010. Aged for a minimum of 4 weeks; longer ageing produces a sharper character.
Taste, aroma, and texture
Firm and elastic, with a compact, smooth interior and very few holes. Pale yellow throughout. Export versions have a characteristic red wax coating, while aged versions may develop a natural rind. The flattened sphere shape is immediately recognisable. Slices cleanly.
Lactic notes are strongly dominant — clean and fresh. Fruity notes are noticeable, while earthy and animal notes remain faint. Herbal and smoky notes are barely perceptible. A mild, clean, approachable aroma; one of the most neutral Dutch cheeses.
Cheesepedia taste profile
The values below are the structured baseline in the Cheesepedia app. Your personal match is calculated separately from your own taste profile.
A general profile can describe Edam, but it cannot know how closely the cheese fits your preferences. Cheesepedia Premium compares this profile with your personal taste profile and lets you evaluate cheeses side by side.
See your personal matchHow to enjoy it
- Sliced into sandwiches, lunch boxes, or snack plates.
- Melted into toasties, omelettes, or baked dishes.
- Cubed for salads, appetisers, or cheese boards.
What pairs with Edam?
Classic serving companions from the Cheesepedia catalog.
- Whole Wheat Cracker
- Butter Cracker
- Salted Cracker
- Spiced Cracker
- Mini Sesame Bagel
Find the right wine in Cheesepedia
Cheesepedia uses an expert-designed algorithm that compares the cheese's taste, intensity, and production profile with the wine's body, acidity, tannin, and sweetness. Wine pairings are not generated by AI.
See wine pairings for EdamStory and origin
Edam became globally popular in the 17th century during the Dutch Golden Age, thanks to its long shelf life and ease of transport. The town of Edam in North Holland was its historic trading centre. The distinctive flattened sphere shape and red wax coating were developed especially for export. Edam Holland has held PGI status since 2010.
Storage and serving
- Store in the fridge, wrapped or vacuum-packed.
- Air travel: suitable, especially if vacuum-packed.
Profile sources and methodology
This page uses the same curated record as the Cheesepedia mobile app. Production-style and designation references provide context; they do not imply endorsement of Cheesepedia.
