Leyden cheese (Leidse kaas in Dutch) is firm, yellow cumin spiced cheese made in the Netherlands. It is produced both in factories and traditionally on farms in this historic area of Leiden.

Made from pasteurized skimmed cow’s milk, Leyden is very similar to Gouda in shape (round and flat) but has a lower fat percentage, about 30 to 40%.

The addition of cumin seeds gives the cheese a distinctively dry, tangy, and spicy flavor, very unlike other Dutch cheeses. Cloves and Caraway seeds are also added occasionally for that extra boost. The wax-coated Leyden is a perfect addition to any cheese platter. Pairing it with an ice-cold beer or a Shiraz and dark malty bread will do wonders.