1 slice (21 g) Sliced Smoked Gouda contains approximately 70 calories. Smoked Gouda is a famous cheese variety that has a distinctive smoky flavor and aroma, which makes it unique and different from other types of cheese. It is a popular ingredient in dishes that require extra flavor and richness.
In addition to the smoky taste, Smoked Gouda provides a variety of nutritional benefits. It is an excellent source of protein and calcium, which is essential for healthy bones, muscles, and tissues. Smoked Gouda is also rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12, vitamin D, and zinc.
In this article, we will discuss the nutritional value of Smoked Gouda and its potential health benefits. We will also provide some recipe ideas that incorporate Smoked Gouda as a key ingredient.
Calories in Sliced Smoked Gouda
One slice (21 g) of Sliced Smoked Gouda contains approximately 70 calories, which makes it a great option for those who are watching their calorie intake. However, the calorie content may vary depending on the brand and serving size. Smoked Gouda is a high-fat cheese, with approximately 6 grams of fat per slice. However, it's important to note that not all fats are created equal, and the fats found in Smoked Gouda are mostly unsaturated and beneficial for heart health.
Fat Content
One slice (21 g) of Sliced Smoked Gouda contains approximately 6 grams of fat, which makes up about 9% of the recommended daily intake. However, the majority of the fats found in Smoked Gouda are healthy, unsaturated fats that can help improve cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation in the body. Smoked Gouda is also a good source of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a type of healthy fat that has been linked to weight loss and improved body composition.
Protein Content
One slice (21 g) of Sliced Smoked Gouda contains approximately 4 grams of protein, which is important for building and repairing muscles, tissues, and organs. Protein is also essential for maintaining a healthy weight and keeping you feeling full and satisfied for longer periods of time.
Carb Content
Smoked Gouda is a low-carb cheese, with less than 1 gram of carbohydrates per slice (21 g). This makes it an excellent option for people who are following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. However, it's important to note that not all carbs are bad, and carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body.
Sugar Content
Smoked Gouda does not contain any added sugars, making it a great option for people who are trying to reduce their sugar intake. It's important to note that some types of cheese may contain small amounts of lactose, a type of sugar found in milk. However, Smoked Gouda is a low-lactose cheese and is generally well-tolerated by people who are lactose intolerant.
Sodium Content
One slice (21 g) of Sliced Smoked Gouda contains approximately 160 milligrams of sodium, which is about 7% of the recommended daily intake. While sodium is essential for maintaining a healthy balance of fluids in the body, consuming too much salt can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems.
Cholesterol Content
Smoked Gouda is a high-cholesterol cheese, with approximately 25 milligrams of cholesterol per slice. However, recent studies have shown that consuming dietary cholesterol is not directly linked to an increase in blood cholesterol levels or an increased risk of heart disease in most people. In fact, some studies have suggested that consuming moderate amounts of cholesterol can actually have a beneficial effect on heart health.
Vitamins and Minerals
In addition to its macronutrient content, Smoked Gouda is also a rich source of vitamins and minerals. One slice (21 g) of Sliced Smoked Gouda provides approximately:
- 10% of the daily recommended intake of calcium
- 10% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin B12
- 6% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin D
- 4% of the daily recommended intake of zinc
Health Benefits of Smoked Gouda
Consuming Smoked Gouda in moderation can provide a number of potential health benefits. Some of the benefits associated with Smoked Gouda include:
- Improved bone health and reduced risk of osteoporosis due to its high calcium content
- Improved heart health and lower risk of heart disease due to its healthy fats and CLA content
- Weight loss and improved body composition due to its protein and healthy fat content
- Reduced inflammation and improved immune function due to its vitamin and mineral content
Recipe Ideas
Smoked Gouda is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of recipes. Some delicious recipe ideas that incorporate Smoked Gouda include:
- Grilled cheese sandwiches with Smoked Gouda and tomato
- Smoked Gouda mac and cheese
- Smoked Gouda and broccoli crustless quiche
- Smoked Gouda and apple grilled cheese
Smoked Gouda is an excellent source of protein and calcium, making it a great addition to any healthy, balanced diet.
5 Frequently Asked Questions about Sliced Smoked Gouda
1. What is Smoked Gouda?
Smoked Gouda is a Dutch cheese that gets its characteristic smoky flavor from smoke-curing over hickory or cherry wood chips. The cheese has a smooth, creamy texture with a mild tangy taste, making it a popular choice for snacking, sandwiches or melting on dishes.
2. Is Sliced Smoked Gouda a healthy cheese option?
Smoked Gouda cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, but it is also high in fat and sodium. Therefore, it should be consumed in moderation to maintain a healthy diet. One slice of sliced smoked gouda contains around 70 calories and 5 grams of fat.
3. How do you store Sliced Smoked Gouda cheese?
Sliced Smoked Gouda cheese should be kept in the refrigerator, ideally in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap. Make sure to use the cheese within a week after opening to avoid spoilage, as the moisture content of the cheese makes it susceptible to mold.
4. How can I use Sliced Smoked Gouda cheese in cooking or recipes?
Sliced Smoked Gouda cheese can be melted on sandwiches or burgers, grated on top of pizza or pasta, or served as a snack with crackers or fruit. It can also be used in recipes like quiches, soups, and sauces to add flavor and creaminess.
5. Is Sliced Smoked Gouda cheese suitable for vegetarians?
Most varieties of Sliced Smoked Gouda cheese are suitable for vegetarians, as they are made with microbial rennet instead of animal rennet. However, it is always advisable to check the label or ask the manufacturer to ensure that it meets your dietary requirements.