For some folks, Gouda may best be remembered for its wax-coated exterior. But true cheese lovers will never forget Gouda's mellow, rich caramel-flavor. Or aged Gouda's lightly sweet and sharp individuality. Or smoked Gouda's musky, rich aftertaste. Baby Gouda is usually coated in red wax, aged has a yellow coating, and smoked usually has a black or brown rind.

Try Baby Gouda with peaches, melons, apricots and cherries. Aged Gouda is best with red apples, pears, toasted almonds and dark breads.
   
  SERVE WITH: Baby: Fruity Zinfandel, Riesling, lager beer, orange juice, apple juice, flavored tea and citrus sparkling water. Aged: Merlot, beer, cider, sparkling red grape juice, coffee | Baby: Peaches, melons, apricots, cherries. Aged: Red apples, pears. Smoked: Apples, pears | Aged: Toasted almonds | Aged: Dark breads


   Image © Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board.
Appearance
Baby: Red wax exterior, golden interior|Aged: Yellow wax exterior, golden interior | Smoked: Black or brown exterior, golden interior
Taste
Mellow, rich caramel
Melts
Melts best when shredded
Dilled Cheese Squares
Pork Tenderloin Cubano
Pulled Turkey Wrap with Gouda and Mushroom Soy
Gouda and Feta Pizzettes
Gouda and Strawberry Salad
   
 
  Gouda and Edam are essentially identical cheeses in terms of flavor, texture and appearance. Their main difference is that while Edam is always made from partially skimmed milk, Gouda is always made from whole.