What Are Some Of the Different Types Of Specialty Cheeses?

There are so many varieties of cheese it's very difficult to not find a kind you like. Often parents can only get their children to eat certain foods if cheese is involved. But maybe you've developed past this taste and want to try some of the artisan or specialty types. Well here's a few you may like to start with.

Most of us have had American, Cheddar, Colby, Monterey Jack, Swiss, Feta and Bleu. But have we all had Brie? If you haven't it's a great place to start. If you have it's a great place to go even more specialty. If you haven't tried Camembert it's a good way to step it up a notch. It's not exactly Brie, but a richer flavored, similar texture. It comes from Normandy and some people say there's a hint of apple to its flavor. It is creamy if you serve at room temp and quite firm if chilled.

Maybe you'd like to try a specialty that doesn't come from France. The Dutch are quite known for making excellent cheeses also. Edam is mild, a little salty and very yummy. It's not far out there in flavor and often quite easy to get a hold of. You can serve with fruit, crackers or bread. Or add it to a sauce to richen the flavor. Another great style that comes from the Dutch is Gouda. This cheese is stronger in flavor and if it's young can be quite creamy. As it ages it tends to become firmer and almost bitter in taste. If you really want to search for unique Gouda, try it made from goat milk. It's white instead of yellow and milder in flavor.

Maybe you've already tried both Dutch and French varieties but haven't had a good German cheese; Limburger could be just your ticket. It's come to be known as one of the stinky kind, but don't let that keep you from tasting this delicious import. It has a flavor that is both creamy and tangy, similar to Brie. The rind is the strong, smelly part of the cheese. If you're not up to it, trim this off. Enjoy with veggies, crackers or a cold stein of German beer!

Whichever specialty is for you make sure to stretch your taste buds and go for something unique and new. You only get to live once, and you might as well try all the cheese the world has to offer!