Babybel, with its distinctive red wax coating, has captured the hearts and palates of cheese lovers around the globe. Each bite-sized cheese wheel is bursting with creamy goodness and a world of flavours to explore. But, do you know what type of cheese is Babybel? Read on to find out.
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Not all commercial cheeses are created equal
In a market segment that includes Velveeta and Kraft Singles, French cheesemakers still manage to stand head and shoulders above their competitors. Indeed, even mass-produced cheeses like Babybel and La Vache Qui Rit are superior to their international counterparts.
Who makes Babybel?
Babybel was invented and is marketed to this day by the French company Le Groupe Bel.
Originally, Jules Bel started this company in 1865 in the Jura region of France. Presently, Le Groupe Bel produces 50% of its global output in Évron in the northwest of France.
What cheese is in the original Babybel?
While it comes in many variants, the original, classic Mini Babybel is actually a French cheese that is inspired by the Dutch recipe for Edam.
Edam, which is of Dutch origin, is a pressed uncooked cheese that has subtle sweet notes of grassiness with a touch of nuttiness. While traditional Edam is not typically tangy or tart, Babybel cheeses certainly are that.
New flavours for Babybel
Over the years, Le Groupe Bel have added a number of flavours and colours to their range. Here is their current line-up.
Purple (Cheddar)
Cheddar is a pressed uncooked of cheese that originated in the English village of Cheddar in Somerset. It is known for its pale yellow colour and smooth, creamy texture. Moreover, Cheddar’s flavour is savoury and complex and varies depending on the aging process.
The Cheddar in Purple Babybel is a young variety with a subtle flavour and moist texture.
Orange (Gouda)
Gouda is a Dutch cheese named after the city of Gouda. It is a pressed uncooked cheese with a semi-hard, smooth, creamy texture and a pale yellow colour.
Gouda has a mild, slightly nutty flavour that becomes more pronounced with ageing. Similarly to their Cheddar variety, Le Groupe Bel use a young Gouda for their Orange Babybel.
Yellow (Emmental)
Emmental is a cheese that originated in the Alps near the France and Switzerland border. It is a semi-hard cheese with a pale yellow colour and distinctive large holes or “eyes” throughout its interior.
Having said that, the version of Emmental in the Yellow Babybel is blind (meaning it is devoid of eyes). Furthermore, it has a smooth, slightly elastic texture and a mild, nutty flavour.
Dark Green (Mozzarella)
Mozzarella is an Italian pasta filata cheese traditionally made from buffalo milk or cow’s milk. It is a semi-soft cheese with a white colour and a smooth, elastic texture.
In their Dark Green Babybel, Bel use a low moisture, commercial grade Mozzarella. This version has a mild, delicate flavour with a hint of sweetness.
Turquoise (Monterey Jack)
Monterey Jack, originating from the United States, is a smooth, semi-hard cheese celebrated for its mild, buttery flavour. Named after its place of origin, Monterey, California, this cheese is made from cow’s milk and is known for its pale yellow colour and firm yet supple texture.
Green Leaves (Coconut Oil)
Finally, Bel recently added a plant-based option to their range. The youngest Babybel is made with coconut oil and coated in a dark green wrapper with a leafy motif.
Summary
Whether you prefer classic simplicity or crave bold and daring tastes, Babybel has something to offer every cheese lover.
With their commitment to quality and craftsmanship, each flavour is a testament to the artistry of cheesemaking. And let’s not forget the charmingly playful nature of those little red wax wheels, making them a perfect choice for snacking on the go.
What’s your favourite Babybel? Drop me a line in the comments and let’s chat!
Jonah is a a hipster, eco-warrior and slow food afficionado. Coming from a scientific background, Jonah has a particular interest in cheese science. And yes, he loves a good cheese pun!
