Gouda and Havarti are two popular kinds of cheese that people worldwide love. But many people don’t know that there are some apparent differences between these two kinds of cheese.
But what are these differences? To know them, you need to read the whole discussion.
Gouda cheese has a nutty, caramel-like flavor, a more intense aroma, and is higher in fat and calories. Havarti cheese has a mild, buttery flavor and milder aroma and is lower in fat and calories. But this is a short overview.
Read the whole article to explore these differences in detail. We will study the differences and similarities between Gouda and Havarti cheese and help you decide which one to choose for your next cheese platter.
An Overview
A table will give you all the info in a small space, providing you with a short overview of the differences. So, the following table will help you.
| Feature | Gouda Cheese | Havarti Cheese |
| Origin | Netherlands | Denmark |
| Texture | Firm to soft and creamy | Smooth and creamy |
| Flavor | Nutty, caramel-like | Mild and buttery |
| Aroma | Stronger with a hint of sweetness | Milder |
| Production Method | Washed curd | Pressed curd |
| Milk Type | Cow, goat, or sheep | Cow, goat, or sheep |
| Aging | Aged or smoked varieties available | Smoked and flavored varieties are available |
| Nutritional Value (per 1 oz) | 110 calories, 7 g fat, 8 g protein, 20% DV calcium | 100 calories, 7 g fat, 7 g protein, 20% DV calcium |
| Pairing | Red wine and beer | White wine and beer |
What is Gouda Cheese?
To understand the differences, you need to know the definition of that cheese first and then its essential background. That’s why we are going to talk about the cheese itself first. Gouda cheese started its journey in the Netherlands.
Smooth texture and rich, nutty flavor are the identity of this cheese. This semi-hard cheese is typically made from cow’s milk. However, some variations of this cheese may use goat or sheep’s milk.
The consistency of Gouda cheese depends on its age. It may be either firm and crumbly or soft and creamy.
Smoked, aged, and different flavored varieties are the types of Gouda cheese. Smoked Gouda is a popular choice for those who enjoy a smoky flavor in their cheese.
On the contrary, Aged Gouda has been aged for a longer time. It has a more complex flavor and crumbly texture. Many flavors in Flavored Gouda cheese may be infused with different herbs, spices, or other ingredients to add extra flavor.
The process used to produce Gouda cheese is known as “washed curd.” First, the curd is washed with water and then pressed and aged. Ultimately, Gouda cheese gets its milder flavor and a softer texture.
Gouda cheese can make any dish, whether sandwiches, macaroni, or fondue, so delicious. Anyone can enjoy this cheese with wine and beer.
What is Havarti Cheese?
Denmark is the homeland of Havarti cheese. This cheese is popular for its creamy texture and mild, buttery flavor.
Like Gouda cheese, Havarti cheese is also made from cow’s milk. Some use goat or sheep’s milk to bring variation in it. The reason behind its spicy and melty nature is its smooth, creamy texture.
Havarti cheese also comes in different flavors and forms like Gouda cheese, for example, plain, smoked, and flavored varieties. Smoked Havarti leaves a smoky flavor.
It perfectly pairs with cured meats and other savory ingredients. Herbs, spices, or other ingredients can be added to Havarti cheese to make it aromatic.
A “pressed curd” method is used to produce Havarti cheese. In this process, excess whey should be removed to bring a firmer texture to this cheese.
A lot of dishes pair well with Havarti cheese. Grilled cheese sandwiches, quiches, and omelets are some dishes famous for Havarti cheese. People also love white wine, beer, and cider with this cheese.
Comparison and Contrast of Gouda and Havarti Cheese
- Texture: Gouda cheese has a firmer texture than Havarti cheese. Gouda cheese can range from firm and crumbly to soft and creamy, while Havarti cheese has a smooth, creamy texture.
- Flavor: Gouda cheese has a nutty, caramel-like flavor, while Havarti cheese has a mild, buttery flavor.
- Aroma: Gouda cheese has a more intense aroma than Havarti cheese, with a touch of sweetness. Havarti cheese has a milder aroma than Gouda.
- Nutritional value: Gouda and Havarti cheese are good sources of calcium and protein. Gouda cheese is slightly higher in fat and calories than Havarti cheese.
- Pairing: Gouda cheese pairs well with red wine and beer, while Havarti cheese pairs well with white wine and beer.
Conclusion
To conclude, we can say that both Gouda and Havarti cheeses are famous for their unique characteristics.
The exciting fact is though both kinds of cheese are made from cow’s milk and have a similar texture, they differ in their flavor, aroma, and nutritional value.
Gouda cheese has a nutty, caramel-like flavor, while Havarti cheese has a mild, buttery flavor. Gouda cheese also has a more intense aroma than Havarti cheese.
Regarding nutritional value, both kinds of cheese are good sources of calcium and protein, but Gouda cheese is slightly higher in fat and calories.
