Cheese lovers often come across Edam and Gouda, two well-loved varieties from the Netherlands. Both these cheeses are semi-hard, made from cow’s milk, and have rich histories dating back centuries.

Cheese from Edam itself will be labelled Noord-Hollandse Edammer. There are also low-fat and vegetarian Edams available, both coated in the same red wax as the standard cheese. Edam with a green ...