Leyden cheese (Leidse kaas in Dutch) is firm, yellow cumin spiced cheese made in the Netherlands. Made from pasteurised semi-skimmed milk of cow, Leyden is very similar to Gouda in shape (round and flat) but has a lower fat percentage, about 30 to 40%. This Dutch cheese is produced in factories and traditionally on farms in the historic area of Leiden (Leyden).

The addition of cumin seeds gives the cheese a distinctive dry, tangy and spicy flavour, 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.