Last Updated on 2 months by The Cheese Society Team
Dutch Cheese: A Journey Through Flavour and Tradition
Dutch cheese is beloved globally, carrying centuries of tradition and craftsmanship that continue to inspire cheese lovers. Here at The Cheese Society, we bring you a taste of these timeless Dutch traditions, featuring a selection that reflects the artistry, diversity, and unique flavours of Dutch cheese.
The Netherlands is a global cheese hub, with markets in cities like Gouda and Alkmaar that have thrived since the Middle Ages. From the mild, creamy textures of young Gouda to the deep caramel notes of aged varieties, each type of Dutch cheese embodies the careful practices of local cheese-making. Below, we explore some of our favourite varieties — each with its own flavour, texture, and history.
What is Gouda Cheese?
Gouda is the cornerstone of Dutch cheese-making, originating in the South Holland town of the same name. With a history dating back to the 12th century, it’s among the world’s oldest recorded cheeses. Gouda cheese has a unique process: after curds are washed to create a mellow, creamy texture, the cheese is soaked in a brine solution, adding a touch of saltiness. This technique preserves the cheese and enhances its flavour, allowing it to age gracefully over months — or even years.
Young Gouda, or “jonge kaas,” is creamy, mild, and soft, but as it ages into “oude kaas” or “very old cheese,” it takes on caramelized, nutty undertones and a firmer, slightly crumbly texture. The age, or “ripeness,” is key to Gouda’s appeal, and we offer a range of flavours and ages to suit every taste. According to the DUTCH DAIRY BOARD, Gouda accounts for over 60% of all Dutch cheese exports, underscoring its popularity worldwide.
Goat Gouda with Fenugreek
This variation combines the fresh, tangy quality of goat’s milk with the nutty, slightly sweet flavour of fenugreek seeds.
This variation combines the fresh, tangy quality of goat’s milk with the nutty, slightly sweet flavour of fenugreek seeds. Originating from the town of Woerden, this cheese balances creamy goat’s milk with the crunch and earthy flavour of fenugreek, which has been a favoured ingredient in Dutch cheese-making for centuries.
Fenugreek, known for its health benefits in traditional medicine, adds a depth that pairs well with the mildness of young goat cheese.
Aged two to three months, Goat Gouda with Fenugreek has a soft texture and a mild flavour, ideal for adding a unique twist to any cheeseboard. Experts recommend pairing it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling. For a truly Dutch experience, try it with a wheat beer, which complements the cheese’s natural tang and fenugreek’s slightly nutty sweetness. This cheese brings a touch of innovation while staying rooted in traditional Dutch flavours.
Gouda with Truffles
Gouda with Truffles is a luxurious take on traditional Dutch cheese. Adding truffles to Gouda creates a bold, savoury profile, combining the creaminess of semi-soft Gouda with the earthy richness of truffles. creamy,
slightly salty profile of Gouda with the rich earthiness of truffles.
This combination is an example of how Dutch cheesemakers have embraced flavours from other culinary traditions, as truffles are more commonly associated with French and Italian cuisines.
With its rich aroma and creamy texture, this cheese is perfect on its own but also enhances dishes like risottos, pastas, and gourmet sandwiches. Pairing it with a full-bodied red wine like Merlot or a dark, malty beer brings out the earthy truffle notes.
At The Cheese Society, we select Gouda with Truffles for those looking to add a sophisticated flavour to their cheese board, providing a unique and memorable option for special occasions.
Gouda with Cumin
Gouda with Cumin is a nod to the longstanding tradition of spice-infused cheeses in the Netherlands.
Cumin has been used in Dutch cheese-making since the 17th century, particularly in the province of North Holland, where traders imported exotic spices from Asia. T
his cheese blends Gouda’s mild, creamy base with the warm, spicy notes of cumin seeds, creating a comforting yet distinctive flavour. The seeds not only add a beautiful texture but also enhance the cheese’s natural sweetness.
This variety pairs well with Dutch and Belgian ales, as the warm spice of the cumin complements the beer’s malty notes. For wine lovers, a light to medium-bodied red, such as a Pinot Noir, provides a lovely contrast to the Gouda’s mild saltiness.
Gouda with Cumin remains a customer favourite, especially for those seeking a cheese with a bit of spice. It’s versatile, flavorful, and a wonderful addition to any cheeseboard.
Old Amsterdam
Old Amsterdam is a prime example of aged Gouda, celebrated for its rich flavour and smooth, slightly granular texture.
With 18 months of maturation, this cheese offers a profile filled with caramel and nutty notes, balanced by a hint of umami. Its deep amber colour and slightly crumbly consistency make it a standout choice for those who appreciate the intensity of an aged cheese.
Aged cheeses like Old Amsterdam are at risk from climate change, as rising temperatures can affect the quality of milk and the traditional ageing process. The Dutch Dairy Association is currently researching sustainable practices to ensure the future of aged cheeses like Old Amsterdam. When it comes to pairing, this cheese shines with robust red wines such as Syrah or Zinfandel, or with a dark beer. For a non-alcoholic option, a spiced cider enhances its caramel undertones, creating a truly memorable tasting experience.
How to Buy Dutch Cheese Online
At The Cheese Society, we’re dedicated to bringing you the finest Dutch cheeses. Our selection includes beloved varieties like Goat Gouda with Fenugreek, Gouda with Truffles, and Old Amsterdam, each carefully chosen for quality, taste, and history.
When buying Dutch cheese online, it’s essential to choose a trusted provider to ensure authenticity and freshness.
Through our online store, we offer detailed descriptions, flavour profiles, and storage tips to help you make the perfect choice. Our cheeses are hand-cut to order, guaranteeing freshness upon arrival.
Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or exploring Dutch cheese for the first time, our convenient delivery options make it easy to enjoy the flavours of the Netherlands at home.
Storing and Serving Dutch Cheese
Proper storage helps Dutch cheese retain its flavour and texture. Here are a few tips we recommend:
- Storage: Keep your cheese in the vegetable drawer of your fridge, wrapped in wax paper or
parchment before placing it in an airtight container. This allows the cheese to “breathe” while preserving moisture and aroma. - Serving: To enjoy the fullest Flavours, serve your Dutch cheese at room temperature. Simply
remove it from the fridge 30–45 minutes before serving. Our favourite way to serve a selection of Dutch cheeses is with a mix of fresh fruits, nuts, or crusty bread, perfect for creating a beautifully balanced cheeseboard.
Pairing Dutch Cheese with Drinks
Pairing Dutch cheese with the right drink can elevate your tasting experience, highlighting each cheese’s unique flavours. Here are a few suggestions for our popular varieties:
- Goat Gouda with Fenugreek: Pair with a light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling, or a pilsner or wheat beer.
- Gouda with Truffles: Best enjoyed with a full-bodied red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon,
or a dark, malty beer. - Gouda with Cumin: Pairs wonderfully with Belgian ale or a light to medium-bodied red, like Pinot Noir.
- Old Amsterdam: Robust red wines such as Syrah or Zinfandel, or a spiced cider or dark beer
complement this aged cheese beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes Dutch cheese unique compared to other European cheeses?
Dutch cheese is beloved for its smooth, creamy texture and distinct flavour. The quality of milk from Dutch pastures, combined with traditional production methods such as brining and ageing, results in unique flavour profiles not found elsewhere. - How is Gouda cheese different from other types of cheese?
Gouda is a semi-hard cheese known for its smooth texture and complex caramel notes, which develop as it ages. Gouda is soaked
in a brine solution, adding a mild saltiness and a distinctive smooth finish. It’s incredibly versatile, working beautifully in both cooking and cheeseboards. - What are the best pairings for Dutch cheese?
Pairing varies by type: young Gouda complements crisp white wines, while aged Gouda, like Old Amsterdam, shines with full-bodied reds.
Fruits, nuts, and honey also bring out Dutch cheese flavours. - Where can I buy authentic cheese from Netherlands online?
You’re in the right place! At The Cheese Society, we offer a curated selection of Dutch cheeses, including classics like Old Amsterdam and unique varieties like Gouda with Fenugreek, with convenient delivery right to your door. You can explore all of our Dutch cheese
selections here.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN DUTCH (HOLLAND) AND NETHERLANDS?