Maasdam

Maasdam is a popular Dutch semi-hard cow's-milk cheese, created in the Netherlands in the 20th century as a local, more affordable answer to the expensive Swiss emmental, which it resembles.

Like emmental, maasdam has characteristic large holes (“eyes”) inside, formed thanks to special bacteria that release carbon dioxide during maturation. However, maasdam matures faster, which makes it cheaper. It has a soft, elastic, smooth texture and a pleasant, tender, sweet-nutty taste. The wheel is often covered on the outside with a yellow waxed rind. Maasdam is easy to slice and pleasant to eat in slices, and it melts well. It is a versatile, mild cheese, loved by many for everyday use: for sandwiches, cheese boards, and hot dishes. Maasdam is well known and popular in Ukraine.