Definition

Noun: A type of mild, creamy, and typically yellow cheese originating from the Netherlands. It is often shaped into large wheels or balls. Gouda cheese can vary in age from young and soft to aged and hard, with a flavor that becomes richer, sharper, and more crystalline as it matures.

Usage

"Gouda cheese" is used as a countable noun to refer to the cheese in general or a specific portion of it. It is commonly found in contexts related to food, cooking, and dining. - I bought a wedge of Gouda cheese for the party. - Gouda cheese melts beautifully in sandwiches. - This recipe calls for 100 grams of aged Gouda cheese.

Advanced Usage

• As a modifier: While "Gouda cheese" is the full term, "Gouda" alone is frequently used as a noun to mean the same thing (e.g., "a slice of Gouda"). In such cases, it functions as an uncountable noun.
  • The charcuterie board features a two-year-old Gouda.

Variants and Related Words

• Gouda (n): The shortened, common form of "Gouda cheese."
• Boerenkaas (n): A traditional Dutch farmhouse cheese, sometimes a type of Gouda made with raw milk.
• Edam (n): Another famous Dutch cheese, often compared to Gouda but typically shaped into smaller balls and having a slightly different taste and texture.

Synonyms

• Dutch yellow cheese: A descriptive synonym highlighting its origin and color.
• Semi-hard cheese: A categorical term describing its texture, especially when young.

Related Phrases

• Aged Gouda: Refers to Gouda cheese that has been matured for a long period (often over 12 months), resulting in a sharper, saltier, and sometimes crunchy texture.
• Smoked Gouda: Gouda cheese that has been cured in a smokehouse, giving it a distinctive smoky flavor.

Noun

1. mild cream-colored Dutch cheese shaped in balls