Andy Montoya
Parmesan is a versatile and delicious cheese that can be enjoyed on its own or as a topping for pasta dishes, salads, and even grilled cheese sandwiches. It is known for its sharp, salty, and nutty flavor, as well as its hard texture that can be grated or shaved. When it comes to pairing cheeses, a general rule of thumb is to combine meltability with flavor intensity. So, does host cheese go well with Parmesan?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Texture | Parmesan has a sharp and salty texture |
| Taste | Parmesan is salty and nutty |
| Melting | Parmesan does not melt well |
| Storage | Parmesan does not require refrigeration but can be stored in the fridge for up to six weeks |
| Use cases | Parmesan is used in pasta dishes, salads, macaroni and cheese, and grilled cheese |
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What You'll Learn
Parmesan's saltiness and nuttiness
Parmesan is a hard cheese with a distinct salty and nutty flavour. Its texture makes it ideal for combining with nuts and chocolates for a snack similar to trail mix, or even to be enjoyed alone. Its sharp, salty, and nutty flavour makes it a great addition to pasta dishes, salads, and even grilled cheese sandwiches. Parmesan is also a great cheese to add to sauces, as it adds a salty and nutty flavour to any melted cheese option. It is traditionally made from cow's milk and is aged for at least 12 months.
The salty and nutty characteristics of Parmesan are well-loved and recognised. Its saltiness is attributed to the fact that it is traditionally made from whole milk and naturally skimmed milk, which are combined and then distributed into copper vats for heating. This process, along with the aging of at least 12 months, gives Parmesan its distinctive sharp and salty flavour.
The nuttiness of Parmesan is a result of the aging process and the specific bacteria used during the cheese-making. The longer a cheese is aged, the more opportunity there is for the development of a nutty flavour. The specific bacteria used in the cheese-making process also interact with the milk proteins and produce flavour compounds that contribute to the nutty taste.
The salty and nutty flavours of Parmesan make it a versatile cheese that can enhance a variety of dishes. Its sharpness can level up the indulgence in comfort foods such as macaroni and cheese, grilled cheese sandwiches, and pasta dishes. The saltiness of Parmesan also makes it a great addition to salads, providing a flavour boost and a textural contrast.
In summary, Parmesan's saltiness and nuttiness are beloved characteristics that make it a versatile and irrefutably delicious cheese. Its sharp and salty flavour, along with its nutty undertones, make it a valuable ingredient in a variety of dishes, adding a flavour boost and a textural contrast.
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Parmesan in cheese sauces
Parmesan is a great addition to cheese sauces, adding a salty, nutty flavour. It can be used to make a sauce on its own or as part of a blend of cheeses. When making a cheese sauce with Parmesan, it is best to grate the Parmesan before adding it, as it does not melt easily.
A basic Parmesan sauce can be made with butter, flour, milk, and Parmesan cheese. This sauce can be seasoned with salt and pepper and served over pasta, chicken, or vegetables. To make the sauce, heat butter in a pan, add garlic and fry for a few seconds, then add flour and fry for another minute on low heat. Next, add milk gradually, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Finally, add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts.
For a more advanced recipe, you can make a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. This sauce includes roasted garlic and chicken broth for added flavour. It can also be made with wine or sherry for an "adult" version. To make this sauce, start by roasting a garlic bulb in the oven, then mincing the garlic. Heat butter in a pan, add the garlic and fry for a few seconds, then add flour and fry for a minute on low heat. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously, followed by chicken broth, and cook until the sauce thickens. Finally, add Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, and cook until the cheese melts.
When making a cheese sauce with Parmesan, it is important to avoid boiling the sauce, as this can cause the Parmesan to become grainy. It is also recommended to add the Parmesan just before serving, rather than reheating the sauce with the cheese already in it.
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Parmesan in grilled cheese
Parmesan grilled cheese is a tasty and simple dish to make. Parmesan is a harder cheese that doesn't melt as easily as other cheeses, so it's best to start with grated Parmesan. It's also saltier than other "melty" cheeses, so it can add a nice tang to your grilled cheese.
To make a Parmesan grilled cheese, you'll need:
- Sourdough bread
- Butter or olive oil
- Grated Parmesan cheese (or a blend of Parmesan and white cheddar)
- Optional fillings: sweet fig jam, a drizzle of balsamic vinegar, arugula, or another cheese like cheddar, muenster, Swiss, gouda, or pepper jack
Here's a suggested method:
- Assemble your sandwiches with your chosen fillings. For a simple grilled cheese, you can just use grated Parmesan between two slices of bread. If you want to get more creative, try adding some sweet fig jam, a drizzle of balsamic, and some peppery arugula. You can also add another type of cheese, like cheddar, to balance out the saltiness of the Parmesan.
- Heat up a frying pan or saucepan on low heat. You can also use a toaster oven if you prefer your sandwich less greasy.
- Butter the outside of your sandwiches or brush them with olive oil. This will help them get a nice golden crust.
- Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook for a few minutes on each side, pressing them down with a spatula to ensure even cooking. If you want a panini press effect without the press, try weighing the sandwiches down with a heavier pan.
- Serve your Parmesan grilled cheese! It goes great with a side of tomato soup or a salad.
Some people also like to add Parmesan to the outside of their grilled cheese for a cheesy crust. You can sprinkle some Parmesan in the pan before adding your sandwich, or you can butter the bread and dip it in a plate of grated Parmesan before grilling. This will give your sandwich an extra cheesy boost!
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Parmesan in pasta dishes
Parmesan is a popular ingredient in pasta dishes, adding a salty and nutty flavour to the dish. It is often used in combination with other cheeses, such as mozzarella, provolone, and cheddar, to enhance the taste and texture of the dish.
When using Parmesan in pasta, it is recommended to buy a wedge of Parmesan cheese and grate it yourself, as pre-grated Parmesan may not melt smoothly into the sauce and can result in a gritty texture. The type of pasta used can vary according to personal preference, but larger pasta shapes, such as rigatoni, rotini, or penne, are often chosen for their ability to hold the sauce well.
One simple recipe for Parmesan pasta involves tossing cooked pasta with butter, olive oil, black pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese. This dish can be prepared in about 15 minutes and is a favourite among those who have tried it. Another popular option is garlic Parmesan pasta, which includes a creamy garlic white sauce made with milk, flour, chicken broth, and freshly grated Parmesan. This recipe typically takes 20 minutes to prepare and is a family favourite.
For a heartier meal, Parmesan pasta can be paired with meat, such as steak or chicken, or served as a side dish. It also goes well with garlic bread and a green salad, making it a filling and tasty option for vegetarians.
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Cheddar and Parmesan
Cheddar is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is often the go-to choice for comfort foods such as grilled cheese sandwiches and macaroni and cheese. The orange variety is simply coloured, with the natural colour being white. Cheddar is also available in different varieties, each with its own distinct flavour and texture. For example, white cheddar has a sharper taste and a harder texture compared to its yellow counterpart.
On the other hand, Parmesan is a hard cheese with a sharp and salty flavour. It is traditionally made from cow's milk and aged for at least 12 months. Parmesan is known for its versatility and can be used in a variety of dishes. It is often grated or shaved and added to pasta dishes, salads, or even snacks like trail mix. Its sharp flavour can also level up the indulgence in comfort foods such as grilled cheese or macaroni and cheese when used in place of cheddar.
When combining Cheddar and Parmesan, the key is to consider both the meltability and flavour intensity of the cheeses. Cheddar melts easily, providing a creamy base for the dish. Parmesan, on the other hand, does not melt well and is best added in its grated form. In terms of flavour, Cheddar provides a base flavour, while Parmesan brings tanginess and saltiness to the dish.
For example, in a grilled cheese sandwich, using grated Parmesan in addition to Cheddar can add a tangy and salty kick to the sandwich. Similarly, in macaroni and cheese, replacing some of the Cheddar with Parmesan can enhance the sharpness and indulgence of the dish. The combination of these two cheeses can create a complex flavour profile that elevates the taste of the dish.
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Frequently asked questions
Parmesan is a versatile cheese that can be paired with a variety of other cheeses, including cheddar, gruyere, and mozzarella. It can add a salty and nutty flavour to melted cheese options.
Parmesan is a hard cheese that does not require refrigeration. However, it is best to refrigerate or freeze it after opening to prolong its life. If stored in the fridge, it can last up to six weeks.
Parmesan cheese is traditionally made from cow's milk and aged for at least 12 months. Whole milk and skimmed milk are combined and heated in copper vats.
Parmesan can be shaved or grated and added to pasta dishes, salads, or even trail mix-like snacks. It can also be used in macaroni and cheese or grilled cheese sandwiches for a sharp and indulgent flavour.
