Dutch Cheeses

The Netherlands is more than just that tulips and windmills. It is a country known for its delicious cheeses.

If you are a cheese lover, it is time to discover the rich flavors of the Dutch cheeses and history.

Strong cheese culture

The Netherlands is a country with a rich cheese culture. Whether you prefer the classic Gouda, the traditional Maasdamer or the stronger goat cheese, there is a Dutch cheese to suit all tastes.

So the next time you visit Amsterdam, don't forget to explore the city's (country's) cheese world and discover the amazing flavors that await you.

These ten cheeses are just a small part of the rich cheese tradition that the Netherlands has to offer.

1. Gouda
   Gouda is perhaps the most famous Dutch cheese internationally. Gouda cheese is a popular Dutch cheese characterized by its mild and creamy taste.

   Traditionally made from cow's milk, it has a yellowish color. Gouda can vary in flavor and consistency depending on how long it has been aged.

   Younger Gouda is softer and milder, while aged Gouda becomes harder and has a more intense flavor. Regardless of which variety you choose, Gouda is an excellent choice for cheese platters, sandwiches, or cooking.

2. Edam
   Edam is another famous Dutch cheese known for its round shape and red waxy rind. It has a mild and slightly nutty flavor and becomes firmer with age.

   It is also popular because it has a longer shelf life than many other cheeses, making it a practical choice for many households.

3. Maasdam
   Maasdam is known for its large holes and sweetish taste. It is reminiscent of Swiss Emmental. It is excellent in sandwiches and on cheese platters.

4. Leiden
   Leyden, or Leidse kaas, is seasoned with cumin, which gives it a distinct flavor. It is firm in texture and popular both in the Netherlands and internationally.

5. Farmer's cheese
   Boerenkaas means "farm cheese" and is a traditional raw milk gouda made from milk from the farms' own cows. Each cheese is unique as it reflects the specific milk and production method of each farm.

6. Frisian Clove Cheese
   This cheese from Friesland contains whole cloves and sometimes cumin, which gives it a very distinct and strong flavor.

7. Limburger
   Although this cheese is more associated with Belgium and Germany, it is also produced in the Dutch Limburg. It is well known for its strong smell and creamy texture.

8. Romano
   Roomano is an extra-aged cheese with a very intense flavor, sometimes described as a mix between Parmesan and aged Gouda.

9. Cumin cheese
   Komijnekaas is a variant of Gouda with added caraway seeds, which gives it a distinct and slightly spicy taste.

10. Goat cheese
    Geitenkaas is Dutch goat cheese and comes in many varieties, from mild and creamy to strong and aged. It is particularly popular in salads and as part of cheese platters.

Cheese map

Karta with the most important cities for those who love cheese.

Whether you prefer a mild and creamy cheese or a strong and distinct variety, there are Dutch cheeses to suit all tastes.

Enjoy these delights on a cheese board, in cooking, or as they are – a celebration of Dutch culture and craftsmanship.

Cheese shops and restaurants in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a paradise for cheese lovers. The town is filled with cheese shops where you can taste a wide variety of Dutch cheeses.

Many restaurants in the city also offers menus rich in cheese-based dishes, enabling visitors to experience the full breadth of Dutch cheese flavors.

Cheese Museum + "Cheese Shops"