Gouda Cheese

Gouda, semisoft cow’s-milk cheese of the Netherlands, named for the town of its origin. Gouda is traditionally made in flat wheels of 10 to 12 pounds (4.5 to 5.4 kilograms), each with a thin natural rind coated in yellow paraffin. So-called baby Goudas are produced in smaller wheels of 10 to 20 ounces (310–620 grams). Gouda has a smooth-textured interior of pale ivory color. Flavors are bland and creamy, except for aged Gouda, which is darker gold in color, stronger and saltier in flavor, and harder in texture. Low-fat Goudas are also produced.