Blog

Young, mature or old: what's the difference in cheese?

What exactly is the difference between young and aged cheese? And where is an aged cheese on that spectrum? In this blog article, we list the characteristics of young, mature and old cheese. You will discover how the taste and texture change the longer the cheese matures, how long each type matures and how best to use each cheese type in the kitchen. So you will soon know exactly what the difference between matured and old cheese is, the difference between matured and young cheese and you can decide which cheese will become your favourite.

The tastiest Father's Day recipes: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Looking for original Father's Day recipes that will really surprise your father? Whether you get up early for a hearty breakfast in bed or end the day together with a special dinner: at Henri Willig you will find plenty of Father's Day recipes with the tastiest cheeses from our own farm. We list the finest ideas for you, from breakfast to dinner. Be inspired by these Father's Day dishes and put something special on the table!

Taking cheese on holiday: here's what you need to know!

A holiday without your favourite cheese? For many cheese lovers, unthinkable. Fortunately, it is possible to take cheese with you on holiday, provided you take some important points of consideration into account. In this article, you will read all about taking cheese on holiday: from regulations to practical tips on transporting and storing cheese. So that you can also enjoy your favourite snack or spread at your holiday destinations!

What is pasteurised cheese and when do you eat it?

Cheese is a popular product, but there is an important distinction between pasteurised and raw milk cheeses. Pasteurised cheese is made from milk that has undergone heat treatment, better known as pasteurisation. This process briefly heats the milk to about 72 degrees Celsius to kill harmful bacteria such as Listeria, Salmonella and E. coli. This makes the milk safer to consume and gives the cheese a longer shelf life.

Mother's Day recipes to put your mum in the spotlight

Looking for the most delicious Mother's Day recipes to spoil your mum? Whether you're having dinner together on Mother's Day or want to surprise her with a special breakfast, brunch or dessert, these 7 delicious dishes will make it a day to remember. From savoury snacks to sweet Mother's Day treats, these recipes are easy to make AND a party to serve. Get inspired and put your mum in the spotlight!

Henri Willig Webshop exists 25 years!

On 25 April 2000, our webshop went live - an extraordinary step for that time, when online shopping hardly existed. What started as an innovative student project by Wiebe Willig grew into a global online cheese experience. And now, 25 years later, we are proud to celebrate the anniversary of the Henri Willig webshop! In this blog, we share our journey of the past 25 years and talk about our plans for the future.

What is the cow dance?

They jump, skip and sometimes even make a merry buck - it's the cows celebrating, because they finally get to go outside again. But what exactly is the cow dance?

Start Easter off right by making a festive Easter breakfast

Easter breakfast is the time for many families to gather around the table together. The spring sun shines in, the table is set with cheerful crockery and everyone is hungry for something tasty. A small breakfast carefully prepared or a table full of delicacies: with these Easter breakfast ideas you can create a tasty and cosy morning that everyone enjoys!

Easter recipes for your next Easter brunch!

Easter is a time of enjoying together, and what could be better than a sumptuous Easter brunch with delicious dishes? Spring brings fresh flavours and light dishes that are perfect for a festive breakfast or a cosy brunch. With these tasty Easter recipes, you can put a delicious Easter brunch on the table!

Make the tastiest snacks for Easter with Henri Willig

Easter is the time to enjoy good company and delicious snacks together. Spring has sprung, the tables are festively set and everyone is looking forward to a delicious Easter brunch or a cosy get-together. What should definitely not be missing? Honest, artisanal cheeses that go perfectly with the fresh flavours of spring. With Henri Willig cheeses, you can make the most delicious snacks for Easter in no time!

Which cheeses are best in spring?

Cheese lovers know it: just like fruit and vegetables, cheeses also have their seasons. In spring, when nature comes back to life, goat and sheep cheeses are at their best. This is the time when the milk from goats and sheep is most delicate and creamy, resulting in cheeses with a soft, fresh flavour. Perfect for the lighter and fresher dishes we like to eat in spring.

What cheese do you eat on pizza?

Have you ever wondered which cheese looks best on pizza? Whether it's a traditional pizza margherita or an elaborate 4 cheese pizza - the right choice of cheese can make or break your dish. In this blog, we dive into the most popular pizzas and share which cheeses you can use with them. Henri Willig's delicious cheeses are ideally suited to give your homemade pizza that little bit extra.

What are fun presents for St Nicholas?

The holidays are upon us again, and that means: time to start looking for the perfect Sinterklaas gift! But what to give this year? Don't worry, we have collected the best Sinterklaas gift ideas for you, and there is something for everyone. Whether you are looking for something for the cheese lover, the bubbler or the cook at home, at Henri Willig you will find unique gifts that are always a hit.

Thanksgiving cheese: the perfect cheeses for your festive cheeseboard

Thanksgiving is known for its abundance of delicious food, with family and friends coming together to enjoy it. But besides the traditional turkey and pumpkin pie, there is one item that should not be missed: an impressive cheese board! For anyone looking to take their Thanksgiving dinner to the next level, we at Henri Willig have selected the perfect cheeses that are not only delicious, but also a real eye-catcher on the table.

Why do we eat cheese after meals?

After a delicious meal, there is often still room for a small but tasty dessert. You probably know the feeling: you're nice and full, but that last craving can still take some. And what could be better than a piece of cheese? But why do we actually eat cheese after a meal? Is it just because it tastes good, or is there more to it than that? Let's take a look at the benefits of this tasty habit and discover why cheese after meals is a good idea.

Ripened cheese: the art of waiting for the perfect taste

At Henri Willig, everything revolves around the love of cheese and the art of maturation. Ripening cheese is a careful process that requires time, patience and expertise. Only in this way can the perfect taste be achieved. In this blog, we dive deeper into the maturing process of cheese, what is needed to do this, where the cheese matures and how you can mature cheese yourself.

Making party snacks: what do you put on the table?

Are you organising a party soon and looking for inspiration for tasty and original party snacks? The snacks you serve can make or break the atmosphere of your party. That is why we would like to share some unique ideas that are sure to surprise your guests! Whether you want to serve an elaborate cheese board or quick bites, at Henri Willig you will find everything you need to make your party special.

30% f.i.d.m. or 48% f.i.d.m. cheese: what's the difference?

When choosing cheese, you often see terms like 30% f.i.d.m. and 48% f.i.d.m. on the packaging. But what is 30% f.i.d.m. cheese and what is 48% f.i.d.m. cheese? And what is the difference between 30% f.i.d.m. and 48% f.i.d.m. cheese? In this blog, we dive deeper into these questions and discuss the different types of cheeses Henri Willig offers.

Why is goat cheese white and cow cheese yellow?

One of the most frequently asked questions in the cheese community is: Why is goat cheese white and cow cheese yellow? In this article, we explore, explain the science behind the colour differences and what this says about the cheeses' characteristic properties.

Bacteria in cheese: fact or fable

Curious about the truth behind the bacteria in cheese? In this article, you will find out whether it is a fact or just a fable. Learn more about how bacteria affect the taste and texture of your favourite cheeses.

Cutting cheese like a pro: the cutest ways for a party on the table

Curious about the secret behind cutting cheese like a pro? In this article, we dive deeper into cheese cutting techniques. So use our tips to impress with a perfectly made cheeseboard. We are happy to share all the details to make your cheeseboard even more impressive.

The magic of Henri Willig cheese!

We have been telling our story to everyone who visits us for years. The origins lie with Henri and his wife Riet who took a cheese-making course together because they wanted to start producing cheese with the milk from their own cows. They started making farmhouse cheeses for themselves and people in the neighbourhood. Until a group of tourists in a tour bus visited the farm and asked if they could watch the cheese-making process. Needless to say, all those tourists took home cheese. And the buses kept coming back for that delicious authentic cheese with that good story.

Let's talk about cows!

50 years ago, Henri and Riet started their cheese factory. In the beginning, Holstein (black and white) cows walked around on the meadow and the milk from these cows was used to make the cheese. Now years later, there are no Holstein cows on our land, but Jersey cows. And that is a conscious choice.

Everything you didn't know about Gouda cheese: origins, taste and more

Curious about the story behind the iconic Gouda cheese? Then you've come to the right place. In this article, we delve into everything you didn't know about Gouda cheese: from its origin and flavour to additional information about this cheese variety.

Aged cheese: a healthy choice?

As a cheese lover, you are probably familiar with the classic choices: young cheese, mature cheese and, of course, old cheese. But is old cheese actually a healthy choice? Let's take a closer look at the nutritional value, comparison with young cheese, the production process and the possible health benefits of aged cheese.

Nutritional value of goat cheese: what are the facts?

At Henri Willig, we are not only passionate about the taste of our cheeses, but also about the nutritional value they have. Goat cheese is a favourite among many, but what exactly makes goat cheese so special from a nutritional perspective? We would like to tell you more about the nutritional values of goat's cheese. After all, how many calories does goat's cheese actually contain?

Pan-frying goat cheese: here's how to make the tastiest dish

Pan-frying goat cheese is a quick and effective way to add extra flavour and texture to your recipes. We share tips, preparations and a tasty recipe where you can add pan-fried goat cheese.

Can you freeze goat cheese?

Freezing goat cheese is a question frequently asked by consumers, as well as producers. It is important to know that freezing cheese is possible, but not always recommended due to the impact on the texture and taste of the cheese. Find out the best thing to do if you want to preserve your goat cheese for a longer period of time by freezing it.

Eating cheese safely during pregnancy: which cheeses are suitable?

During pregnancy, it is important to be mindful of nutrition. Cheese is a popular product, but not all varieties are suitable for pregnant women. At Henri Willig, we understand how important it is to choose carefully which cheese you can and cannot eat during this special period. With our passion for cheese and years of experience, we would like to inform and inspire you.

What is organic cheese and is it true that it is healthier?

At Henri Willig, we have a passion for cheese of all shapes and sizes, including organic cheese. But what exactly is organic cheese, and is it actually healthier than non-organic cheese? In this article, we dive deeper into the world of organic cheese, its benefits and how it compares to regular cheese.

This is the difference between Edam and Gouda cheese

The Netherlands, with its rich cheese culture, offers a variety of flavours and textures that attract cheese lovers from all over the world. Among these tourist attractions are two cheeses that often stand out: Edam and Gouda. Although both originated in the Netherlands and are appreciated worldwide, they differ significantly from each other. In this article, we highlight the unique characteristics of Edam and Gouda cheese and tell you why they are so popular.

Is feta cheese the same as goat cheese?

"Is feta goat cheese?" is a question often asked by cheese lovers. This article explains the difference between these two popular cheeses, with a focus on their origins, production process and flavour profiles.

Is goat cheese really healthier than regular cheese? Facts and fables revealed

There is an ongoing debate in the world of cheese lovers: is goat cheese healthier than traditional cheese made from cow's milk? Let us examine the nutritional value, health benefits and common misconceptions of these two types of cheese.

The golden duo: discover the perfect combination of cheese and tea

At Henri Willig, we are always looking for ways to inspire and create delicious experiences. Although our journey begins with our own exquisite cheeses and related products, the excitement is heightened when we collaborate with other extraordinary companies and entities.

Carbohydrates and cheese: a detailed overview

We dive into the world of carbohydrates in cheese, a topic of interest to both cheese lovers and those who are diet conscious. We offer a look at how these tasty dairy products fit into a carbohydrate-conscious diet.

Christmas recipe ideas to make with the perfect Christmas cheeses

The holidays are just around the corner! Time to think about delicious dishes to serve at Christmas dinner. With Henri Willig's unique cheeses, you can conjure up the most surprising Christmas recipe ideas. Be inspired by our selection of the tastiest Christmas cheese recipes and turn your Christmas into an unforgettable taste feast!

Sinterklaas cheese: the original treat for Sinterklaas

Sinterklaas is around the corner again! That means cosiness, presents and of course... delicious treats. Are you ready for something new this year? Forget those standard chocolate letters for a moment, because we have something unique for you: the Sinterklaas cheese letter! A tasty surprise especially for all the cheese lovers among us!

Melt away at these cheese starters for Christmas

The holidays are upon us again! Are you ready to enjoy delicious cheese as an appetiser with your friends and family? Whether you are organising a cosy dinner or a big party, Henri Willig's cheeses will make every Christmas appetiser a tasteful success. Be inspired by our easy and tasty recipes as a starter!

Discover the wonders of whey in cheese production

For Henri Willig, cheese is more than just a delicacy; it is a story of tradition, quality and sustainability. An important chapter in this story is 'whey', the liquid that remains after curdling the milk. Whey is a crucial part of the cheese-making process and has a lot of potential outside cheese-making too.

Everything you need to know about eating goat cheese during pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time of joy, anticipation and much concern around nutrition. A common question is whether it is safe to consume goat cheese during this special period. Let's take a closer look at Henri Willig's goat cheeses and how they relate to pregnancy nutrition.

Discover the tastiest cheeses to go with your pasta!

Pasta and cheese are a match made in heaven. A good cheese can transform a simple pasta dish into a culinary masterpiece. At Henri Willig, you will find a wide selection of artisanal Dutch cheeses that can give your pasta that extra bit of flavour you are looking for.

Bite-sized tips: Which cheese goes best with your favourite beer?

Cheese and beer, a duo that has gone together for centuries and which we enjoy at various get-togethers and parties. Whether you are a connoisseur or just looking for new taste experiences, this article offers handy tips for matching cheese with your favourite beer. Let's dive into the world of cheese-and-beer pairings!

Lactose intolerance and goat cheese: how so?

Are you a cheese lover with lactose intolerance? Then there is good news for you! In this blog article, we take a closer look at the relationship between lactose intolerance and goat cheese and discover why it can be an excellent choice.

Time for a drink? Then this cheese is a must

It's time again to enjoy a cosy drink with friends or family. And what absolutely must not be missing from the drinks board? Right, delicious cheese! At Henri Willig, we know better than anyone how important it is to choose the right cheeses that perfectly suit your get-together moment. That's why we have made a selection of our favourite shot cheeses that you absolutely must taste. Whether you like soft and creamy cheeses, spicy flavours or surprising combinations, you will always find the perfect cheese to accompany your drinks.

Storing cheese: what's the best way to do it?

Cheese is a delicious and versatile product that comes in many varieties, from creamy brie to tangy cheddar and everything in between. But how can you make sure your cheese stays fresh and tasty for as long as possible? In this blog, we share handy tips and guidelines on how best to store your cheese. Whether you have a whole cheese or a few slices, our tips will help you enjoy your favourite cheese for longer.

Putting together the perfect cheeseboard: which cheeses shouldn't be missed?

Putting together a cheese board is an art in itself. A cheese cocktail board suits every occasion: from festive gatherings to intimate get-togethers. A well-crafted cheese board offers different flavours, textures and aromas that excite the senses and pamper guests. Whether you are a cheese lover or just looking for a delicious addition to your drinks board, a well-chosen range of cheeses will always impress.

The different cheese varieties at a glance: discover the popular ones

Cheese is a much-loved dairy product that is produced in different varieties worldwide. From soft and creamy to hard and tangy, there is a type of cheese to suit everyone's taste. Discover a variety of popular cheese varieties that are sure to surprise your taste buds. From creamy goat cheese to flavoursome herb cheese, we have something for everyone.

From cow to cheese: how is cheese made?

Have you ever wondered how cheese is made? Then you are definitely not the only one. The fascinating process of cheese making is an age-old craft where milk is transformed into the most delicious cheeses we all know and love. Let's get straight to work and discover how we do it here the traditional way according to our own Henri Willig method.

Tough Father's Day gifts and exciting shop openings in Giethoorn and Düsseldorf

Father's Day is the day to honour and appreciate the amazing fathers who play an important role in our lives. At Henri Willig, we not only celebrate this special day, but also embrace the essence of family in every aspect of our business.

Recognition that makes us proud!

Henri Willig is not just a cheese company, it is also a family business. Founded in 1974 by Henri Willig and his wife Riet, the company was passed on to the next generation and is now run by one of his sons, Wiebe Willig. The other 2 sons, Jacob and Martin, and several grandchildren are also active in the business.

Henri Willig Cheese, A great place to work

Our employees find our company a special and nice place to work. We are happy to tell you why this is.

A fresh start!

First of all, to everyone still best wishes for 2023 of course!

A new year usually represents fresh starts and good intentions. And that's the perfect time to work on new goals and make plans for the year ahead.

Henri Willig Christmas

Christmas stands for pampering and enjoying with loved ones, and Henri Willig's special cheeses should not be missing from that. When it comes to holidays, we at Henri Willig like to go the extra mile.

Whey

Did you know that 10% of milk is used to make cheese? In this blog, we explain this and tell you more about the other 90%, namely the cheese whey
When making cheese, we use milk. To turn this milk into cheese, you heat the milk to 29-30 degrees Celsius and add ingredients such as leavening and rennet

Man, Animal and Nature, together in harmony

In recent years, it has become increasingly clear how important it is to do business in a way that is as good as possible for people, animals and nature. And it is very important to us that we leave the world a better place than when we started.

The term CSR also comes up more often everywhere you read and look. But what are some examples where you can do corporate social responsibility? At Henri Willig, we are always looking for new opportunities everywhere. We want to be as good as possible to the earth and everything that lives on it.

Back to School and Work!

The holiday season is now well and truly over. The sunny days are giving way to autumnal scenes and the routine of work and school has begun in full swing. You often hear people say that they are ready for it again. After all, we quite like rhythm.

Working at our Cheese Family

Have you ever visited one of our shops and experienced how hospitable we are when you come in? All our employees are committed to hospitality and enjoy working for our company. We are proud of this and are happy to invest in it as an employer. We strive to create a pleasant place for both our guests and our employees.

Travelling with Henri Willig

june 21 marks the start of summer every year. For many, this means being outside as much as possible. And then we quickly think of days out and holidays.

We hope for long warm summer evenings and many cosy moments with friends and family. Our cheese is made to be shared, so our cheese family invariably includes a well-stocked cheeseboard.

A tasty Father's Day

When you think of Father's Day you think of gifts like ties, aftershave and good food.

In this blog we focus on the last one, because of course we immediately think of cheese. Thinking of a generously filled sandwich, or a board with lots of cheese cubes, of course with mustard and a beer. Especially for Father's Day, you want to spoil the fathers in your life, such as your father, your father-in-law, your grandfather or your brother or friend who is a father. They deserve it! And you certainly can do that with our special products.

Only the best is enough for mother

Surprise the mothers in your life this Mother's Day with exclusive Henri Willig cheeses. 

Because we, as a family business, know only too well that mothers are important in our lives. We are Henri Willig, The Cheese Family. A Cheese Family in which it is not only the bloodline that determines whether you are family, but in which passion and involvement in our company are just as important.   

Celebrate spring with Henri Willig

Spring is a season to look forward to. The days are getting longer, the sun is regaining its strength and nature is awakening all around us. In the meadows, lambs happily hop about, blossoms colour the trees and also on the farm everything is happening. Calves take their first steps, cows get ready for their annual cow dance and the first fresh milk of the season flows abundantly again. Spring is a time of new beginnings - and we like to celebrate it.

Using the residual product of cheese making creatively as a cheese maker

In the early years, Henri Willig was a passionate cheese maker who started on a small scale. He created his tasty cheeses according to the authentic Gouda recipe, without any extra flavours or additives. The success of these delicious cheeses, which soon became known as the colourful Henri Willig cheeses, demanded more. This need for variety led to an expansion of the range. First, classic cheese flavours, such as cumin cheese and herb cheese, were developed. Later, we added more exotic flavours, such as green pesto cheese, lavender cheese and coconut cheese, to name just a few.

The tastiest recipes to surprise your loved one with on Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is upon us again, and that means: time to look for the best Valentine's Day recipes to surprise your loved one with. But where does Valentine's Day actually come from? And why do we find it so nice to indulge in good food, especially on 14 February? In this blog, we take you back to the origins of Valentine's Day and share the most delicious Valentine's Day dishes with Henri Willig cheeses. Whether you go for a sumptuous breakfast in bed, a romantic candlelit dinner or a cosy drink, there is something for everyone!