What Type Of Cheese Is Made Backwards? The Edam Cheese Riddle Explained
Have you ever heard the riddle about cheese that's made backwards? This clever wordplay has puzzled many people and sparked curiosity about a unique Dutch cheese. The answer isn't about a cheese that matures before it's created or any magical cheese-making process. Instead, it's a simple yet brilliant play on words that reveals the fascinating world of Edam cheese.
The Origin of the Famous Cheese Riddle
The popular riddle asks, "What type of cheese is made backwards?" At first glance, this might seem like a question about an unusual cheese-making technique or a special aging process. However, the answer lies in a clever linguistic twist that has entertained people for generations.
The riddle plays on the fact that when you spell the word "made" backwards, you get "edam" - which happens to be the name of a famous Dutch cheese. This simple yet effective wordplay has made its way into crossword puzzles, jokes, and casual conversations around the world.
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What Is Edam Cheese?
Edam cheese is a traditional Dutch cheese that originated in the town of Edam in the Netherlands. This semi-hard cheese has been produced since the Middle Ages and has gained popularity worldwide for its mild, slightly salty flavor and distinctive round shape.
The cheese is typically made from cow's milk and has a pale yellow interior with a red or yellow wax coating that helps preserve it. Edam has a smooth, firm texture that becomes more granular as it ages. Young Edam is mild and slightly nutty, while aged varieties develop a sharper, more complex flavor.
The Unique Production Process of Edam Cheese
While Edam cheese isn't literally made backwards, it does undergo a unique production process that sets it apart from other cheeses. The traditional method involves several distinctive steps:
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Milk preparation: Fresh cow's milk is heated and mixed with rennet to begin the curdling process.
Curd formation: The milk separates into curds and whey, with the curds forming the base of the cheese.
Draining and pressing: The curds are drained and pressed into large, round molds to remove excess moisture.
Brining: The cheese is soaked in a brine solution, which helps develop flavor and creates a protective rind.
Wax coating: After brining, the cheese is coated in wax, traditionally red or yellow, which helps preserve it during aging and transportation.
Aging process: Edam is aged for anywhere from a few weeks to over a year, depending on the desired flavor intensity.
Why Edam Was Perfect for Long-Distance Travel
One of the reasons Edam became so popular historically is its excellent travel characteristics. The cheese's low moisture content and protective wax coating made it ideal for long ocean voyages during the Dutch Golden Age. Unlike many other cheeses that would spoil during extended journeys, Edam would simply harden and intensify in flavor.
This durability made Edam a staple for sailors and traders, allowing Dutch merchants to export their cheese to far-flung destinations. The cheese's ability to withstand long journeys without refrigeration also made it popular in tropical regions where other cheeses might spoil quickly.
Edam in Crossword Puzzles and Popular Culture
The "made backwards" riddle has become a staple in crossword puzzles and word games. The clue "Dutch cheese made backward" typically appears as a four-letter answer, with "EDAM" being the solution. This clue has appeared in major publications like the New York Times Crossword, the Daily Celebrity, the Daily Mirror, and the Telegraph.
The popularity of this clue demonstrates how food-related wordplay can engage puzzle enthusiasts and cheese lovers alike. It's a perfect example of how culinary knowledge and linguistic creativity can intersect in entertaining ways.
Nutritional Profile and Culinary Uses of Edam
Edam cheese offers several nutritional benefits while being relatively lower in fat compared to many other cheeses. A one-ounce serving typically contains:
- Calories: 100-110
- Protein: 7-8 grams
- Fat: 8-9 grams
- Calcium: 20% of the daily recommended value
- Vitamin B12: 10% of the daily recommended value
Edam's mild flavor and excellent melting properties make it versatile in the kitchen. It can be enjoyed on its own, paired with fruits and crackers, melted in sandwiches and burgers, or used in various recipes. In the Netherlands, it's often served with mustard or in traditional dishes like "kaasdoop" (cheese dip).
Common Questions About Edam Cheese
How can you tell if Edam cheese is authentic?
Authentic Edam cheese typically has a red wax coating with the word "Edam" printed on it. The cheese itself should have a pale yellow color and a smooth texture. While many countries produce Edam-style cheese, true Dutch Edam will often have markings indicating its origin.
How long does Edam cheese last?
When properly stored in the refrigerator, Edam cheese can last for several weeks. If it's unopened and still in its wax coating, it can last even longer. Once cut, it's best to wrap it in wax paper or cheese paper and store it in the warmest part of your refrigerator.
Can you freeze Edam cheese?
Yes, Edam can be frozen for up to six months. However, freezing may slightly alter the texture, making it more crumbly. It's best to use frozen Edam for cooking rather than eating it fresh.
Edam Around the World Today
While Edam originated in the Netherlands, it's now produced in many countries worldwide. From Europe to Wisconsin to Australia, cheese makers have adopted and adapted the Edam recipe to local tastes and traditions. In some regions, you might find variations with different wax colors, aging times, or milk sources (including goat's milk or sheep's milk versions).
The global popularity of Edam demonstrates how a simple Dutch cheese can become an international favorite. Its balance of flavor, texture, and practicality continues to appeal to cheese lovers around the world, whether they know the famous riddle or not.
The Enduring Appeal of the Edam Riddle
The "cheese made backwards" riddle endures because it's simple yet clever, requiring just enough thought to create that satisfying "aha!" moment when the answer becomes clear. It's a perfect example of how food and language can combine to create memorable cultural touchpoints.
Whether you encountered this riddle in a crossword puzzle, heard it from a friend, or stumbled upon it while researching Dutch cheese, the answer - Edam - opens the door to a rich culinary tradition with centuries of history. The next time someone asks you about cheese that's made backwards, you'll not only have the answer but also a wealth of knowledge about this remarkable Dutch cheese and its fascinating journey from a small town in the Netherlands to tables around the world.
The cleverness of this riddle reminds us that sometimes the most straightforward answers are hidden in plain sight, wrapped in a layer of playful wordplay. And in the case of Edam cheese, that wordplay leads us to a delicious destination worth exploring beyond the punchline.
