A flavourful journey into herb cheeses
Cheese and herbs are a golden duo that has charmed food lovers for centuries. In this blog, we’ll explore the world of herb cheeses, their origins, their surprising flavours, and the many ways to enjoy them.
08 August 2025 - OtherWhere do herb cheeses come from?
The story of herb cheese goes back centuries. Farmers once added herbs and spices to make their cheeses last longer or to enhance local flavours. In the Gouda region, cumin became a favourite addition, leading to the famous “komijnekaas.” Over time, new varieties appeared with fenugreek, nettle, or garlic, each adding its own twist to the classic Gouda.
At the Gouda Cheese Experience, you’ll discover how this tradition has evolved and how craftsmanship and innovation come together.
Flavours that surprise
Herb cheeses come in many variations, from soft and subtle to bold and spicy. Imagine a creamy young Gouda with Italian herbs transporting you straight to Tuscany, or an aged Gouda with chili peppers adding a fiery kick. Classics like mustard seed or pesto are also making their way into the cheese world.
Each herb tells a different story. Cumin adds a nutty and savoury touch, nettle gives a fresh, green hint, and fenugreek offers a delicate walnut-like flavour. It’s a journey of taste with every bite.
How to enjoy herb cheeses
Herb cheeses are incredibly versatile. Of course, they’re delicious on their own, but they also shine in cooking. A slice of cumin cheese on fresh bread makes a perfect lunch, while melted pesto cheese can turn a simple pasta into a feast. Add cubes of garlic cheese to a crisp salad for extra flavour, or let them be the stars of your cheese board.
Warm dishes also benefit from their unique flavours. A gratin with chili Gouda gets an exciting twist, while a quiche with Italian herb cheese brings a Mediterranean vibe.
A tasty day out in Gouda
No visit to Gouda is complete without stepping into our unique cheese museum in the city centre. The Gouda Cheese Experience is an interactive outing where you’ll learn everything about Gouda’s origins and taste herb cheeses in all their variety. From mild to spicy, every flavour is a new discovery.
Planning your visit? Find the answers to all your questions or get in touch.
Taste herb cheeses at the Gouda Cheese Experience
Herb cheeses tell stories of tradition and innovation. Ready to experience them with all your senses? Book your tickets today and dive into a world of flavour, history, and fun at the Gouda Cheese Experience.
