edam
A Delightful Dutch Cheese
Edam, a semi-hard cheese hailing from the Netherlands, is renowned for its distinct shape and nutty flavor. Named after the town of Edam in North Holland where it was traditionally traded, this cheese has a rich history that dates back to the 14th century. Today, Edam remains a beloved culinary treasure enjoyed worldwide.
Characterized by its spherical shape and iconic red wax coating, Edam is visually distinctive and easily recognizable. The cheese is typically made from cow’s milk, though variations with goat’s or sheep’s milk are also available. Its smooth texture and creamy yellow interior make it an excellent choice for both slicing and grating.
The taste of Edam is mild yet slightly tangy, with a nutty aftertaste that becomes more pronounced with age. Young Edam is soft and mild, perfect for sandwiches and snacking, while aged Edam develops a firmer texture and more intense flavor, ideal for grating over dishes.
Edam is a versatile cheese that pairs well with fruits, crackers, and even a glass of wine. It is an excellent addition to cheese platters, adding both visual appeal and delightful taste to any gathering.
In conclusion, Edam cheese’s centuries-old legacy, unique appearance, and delightful flavor profile make it a true gem of Dutch cuisine and a beloved cheese option worldwide. Whether enjoyed on its own or incorporated into various recipes, Edam continues to captivate cheese enthusiasts and leave a lasting impression on their palates
There are two folktales that explain the bull’s origin. The first is the story about the Coat of Arms of Monnickendam. This bull would have run away from a monastery in Monnickendam. The bull arrived in a meadow near Edam after a day’s run. He would have gotten lost in the meadow around midnight. A servant came to the bull and thought he saw a man. He asked the bull what he was doing there. The bull would have replied, “Stars”, that would have been the only word the bull could pronounce. Later the servant realized that it had not been a man at all, but the bull. He told the mayor that he had met the bull and the mayor then gave Edam the weapon: a bull on a green field with three stars above the bull.
tHE DAM IN THE RIVER EE
THE DAM
Edam originated at a dam on the IJe or E that flowed into the Zuiderzee. Around 1230 the tidal inlets of the Zuiderzee were dammed up. At the dam the goods had to be transhipped and a toll could be levied.
In this way Edam was able to develop into a trading place. Shipbuilding, herring fishing and cheese trade made Edam flourish.
A lot in Edam seems to take place on and around the water. No wonder with so many canals,
CHEESE
EMPEROR CHARLES V
The cheese market had largely determined the economy of Edam from the sixteenth century.
On April 16, 1526, Emperor Charles V gave Edam the right to a free weekly market as well as the right to Waag, for which 90 guilders had to be paid annually to the count.
On March 2, 1574, this right of Waag was perpetually forgiven by William of Orange as a thank you for the good cooperation during the siege of Alkmaar.
