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17 Different European Cheeses You Must Try At Least Once
When it comes to the world of cheese, Europe is a treasure trove of flavors, textures, and aromas. From creamy Bries to tangy Feta, the continent offers a wide variety of cheeses that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. In this article, we explore 17 different European cheeses that you must try at least once. Whether you’re a cheese connoisseur or just a casual cheese lover, these cheeses are sure to delight and impress.
1. Blue Rathgore
Our cheese journey begins with Blue Rathgore, a unique goat’s cheese that strikes a balance between buttery and tangy. This blue cheese has a crumbly yet creamy texture, with a blue-green mold covering its flesh. Although it’s been out of production for the past decade, you can still find similar alternatives like Harbourne Blue from the U.K. or Spain’s Picos de Europa.
2. Stilton
Often called the “king of cheeses,” Stilton is an English blue cheese with a rich and intense flavor. This semi-soft cheese boasts an ivory to yellow color and is characterized by its blue and green mold veins. It’s worth noting that Stilton cheese has a protected designation of origin and can only be produced in certain counties in England. Enjoy it on its own or as the perfect nightcap for some fancy dreams.
3. Edam
Edam, a Dutch cheese, is instantly recognizable by its pale orange color and bright red wax coating. This slightly salty cheese has a tangy flavor and has been enjoyed for centuries. The red wax seal not only adds to its visual appeal, but also helps extend its shelf life. While “Edam Holland” refers to cheese produced in Holland under strict guidelines, “Edam-style” cheese can be found all over the world. Wisconsin, known as the cheese capital of the U.S., puts its own spin on this classic cheese.
4. Limburger
Limburger cheese is known for its strong aroma, earning it a reputation as one of the stinkiest cheeses. Originally from the Duchy of Limburg, this ivory white cheese has an earthy, mushroom-like flavor. It undergoes a maturation process that changes its texture and intensifies its smell. Historically paired with rye bread, bratwurst and a hearty beer or black coffee, Limburger cheese is truly a working man’s cheese.
5. Saint Paul
Saint Paulin is a cow’s milk cheese from the lesser known region of Brittany in France. Originally made by Trappist monks, this Port du Salut cheese has a creamy yet firm texture. With a slightly milky aroma and nutty yet buttery flavor, Saint Paulin is perfect for vegetarians. It pairs exceptionally well with French red wines such as Beaujolais.
6. Neufchâtel
Neufchâtel, a romantically shaped cheese, is said to have originated during the Hundred Years’ War. Structurally similar to cream cheese, Neufchâtel is made from raw cow’s milk and has a lower fat content. It offers a creamier and tangier flavor than cream cheese, making it a unique and delightful option for cheese lovers.
7. Manchego
Manchego cheese is a Spanish cheese made from the milk of the Manchega sheep. This firm and compact cheese has a buttery texture and a slightly salty and nutty flavor. It is typically aged for varying lengths of time, resulting in different intensities of flavor. Manchego is a versatile cheese that can be enjoyed on its own, paired with fruit or cured meats, or used in cooking.
8. Gruyère
Hailing from Switzerland, Gruyère is a classic and popular cheese known for its nutty and slightly sweet flavor. It has a firm yet creamy texture and is often used in cooking, especially in dishes like fondue. Gruyère pairs well with fruit, crusty bread and white wines.
9. Mozzarella di Bufala
Mozzarella di Bufala is a traditional Italian cheese made from the milk of native water buffalo. This fresh cheese has a soft and delicate texture with a mild and slightly tangy flavor. It is a key ingredient in many Italian dishes such as Caprese salad and Margherita pizza.
10. Roquefort
Roquefort is a famous French blue cheese made from sheep’s milk. It is characterized by its distinctive blue-green veins and creamy texture. Roquefort has a strong and tangy flavor with a hint of sweetness. It is often crumbled and used as a topping for salads or melted in sauces to add richness and depth of flavor.
11. Parmigiano-Reggiano
Parmigiano-Reggiano, also known as Parmesan cheese, is a hard and grainy cheese from Italy. It is made from cow’s milk and aged for a minimum of 12 months, resulting in a rich and complex flavor. Often used as a grated cheese, Parmigiano-Reggiano adds a savory and nutty flavor to pasta dishes, soups and risottos.
12. Camembert
Camembert is a soft and creamy French cheese with a flowery rind. It is made from cow’s milk and has a rich, buttery flavor. When aged, Camembert develops a sticky texture and an earthy aroma. It is often enjoyed spread on crusty bread or baked until warm and melted.
13. Feta
Feta is a Greek cheese made from sheep’s milk or a combination of sheep’s and goat’s milk. It has a crumbly yet creamy texture and a tangy, salty flavor. Feta is a versatile cheese used in salads, pastries and as a topping for grilled meats. Its unique flavor adds a refreshing and salty element to dishes.
14. Brie
Brie, a classic French cheese, is a soft and creamy cheese with a flowery rind. It has a mild and buttery flavor with a subtle earthy note. Often served as a dessert cheese, Brie pairs well with fruit, crackers and crusty bread. It is also delicious when baked until gooey and served with honey or marmalade.
15. Cheddar
Cheddar cheese is a popular cheese that originated in England but is now produced worldwide. It is a semi-hard cheese with a smooth and slightly crumbly texture. Cheddar has a rich and tangy flavor that varies with aging. It is a versatile cheese used in sandwiches, burgers, and macaroni and cheese.
16. Gouda
Originally from the Netherlands, Gouda is a semi-hard cheese with a smooth and creamy texture. It has a mild and slightly sweet flavor with a hint of caramel. Gouda is often enjoyed on its own, melted in sandwiches, or grated over soups and salads.
17. Emmental
Emmental, also known as Swiss cheese, is a firm, pale yellow cheese with holes. It has a nutty and slightly sweet flavor. Emmental is famous for its iconic large holes that form during the aging process. It is often used in sandwiches, quiches and fondues.
Exploring the world of European cheeses is like embarking on a culinary adventure. Each cheese offers a unique taste and experience that reflects the traditions and craftsmanship of its origin. Whether you prefer creamy and mild cheeses or bold and pungent varieties, there is a European cheese out there waiting to be discovered and savored. So why not expand your cheese horizons and try these 17 different European cheeses at least once? Your taste buds will thank you!
Sources:
– “17 Different European Cheeses You Must Try At Least Once” – Mashed (source)
– Encyclopedia Britannica
– Taste Atlas
– Delicious Cooking
– Cheese Reference
FAQS
What makes European cheese unique?
European cheeses are known for their rich heritage, traditional production methods and distinctive regional flavors. Each cheese is made using specific techniques and often follows strict regulations to ensure authenticity and quality. Europe’s diverse climates, landscapes and local traditions contribute to the unique characteristics of each cheese.
Are European cheeses suitable for vegetarians?
While many European cheeses are suitable for vegetarians, it’s important to check the ingredients and production methods. Some cheeses, such as those made with animal rennet, may not be suitable for vegetarians. However, there are many vegetarian options, including cheeses made with vegetable rennet or microbial enzymes.
Can people with lactose intolerance enjoy European cheeses?
Some European cheeses, particularly aged varieties, have minimal lactose content and may be tolerated by people with lactose intolerance. However, this varies from cheese to cheese, and people with lactose intolerance should exercise caution and consider their personal tolerance levels. Choosing hard and aged cheeses such as Parmigiano-Reggiano or Gouda may be a good choice for those with lactose intolerance.
How should I store European cheeses?
Proper storage is essential to preserving the quality and flavor of European cheeses. Most soft and creamy cheeses should be refrigerated and wrapped in wax paper or parchment to allow them to breathe. Hard and aged cheeses can also be stored in the refrigerator, wrapped in cheese paper or aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. It’s best to store cheese away from strong smelling foods to prevent flavor transfer.
Can I substitute European cheeses in recipes that call for other types of cheese?
European cheeses bring their own unique flavors and textures to dishes, but they can often be substituted in recipes that call for similar types of cheese. For example, if a recipe calls for Brie, you can try substituting Camembert or another soft cheese with a flowery rind. Keep in mind, however, that the flavor and characteristics may be different, so the substitution may affect the final outcome of the dish.
Are European cheeses safe for people with gluten allergies?
Most European cheeses are naturally gluten-free as they are made from milk and do not contain added gluten. However, cross-contamination is possible during the production process or when cheeses are processed in facilities that also handle gluten-containing products. It’s always a good idea to check the label or contact the manufacturer if you have a severe gluten allergy to make sure the cheese is safe to eat.