Patrick Oconnell
Grating your own Parmesan cheese is often considered preferable to buying pre-grated cheese. Not only is it cheaper, but it also tastes better and is more suitable for recipes that require the cheese to melt. When grating Parmesan cheese, the best tools to use are a Microplane, a box grater, or a food processor. If you are grating small amounts of Parmesan cheese, a Microplane is the best option. For medium quantities, a box grater is ideal, and for large quantities, a food processor is the best choice.
Characteristics of grating Parmesan Cheese
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Tools | Microplane, box grater, food processor, blender |
| Quantity | Small, medium, large |
| Texture | Fine, coarse, powdery |
| Use case | Topping, garnish, sauce, salad |
| Storage | Refrigerate in an airtight container |
| Buying | Fresh cheese from deli or refrigerated section of the grocery store |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Using a Microplane
Grating Parmesan cheese with a Microplane is a straightforward process that yields fine shreds of cheese ideal for garnishing pasta, salads, and other dishes. It is a preferred method for grating small amounts of fresh Parmesan, and it is easy to use.
To grate Parmesan cheese with a Microplane, start by cutting a small block of Parmesan cheese from a larger wedge. You can adjust the size of the block according to your desired quantity of grated cheese. Hold the Microplane grater firmly in one hand and the block of cheese in the other. Run the block of cheese along the surface of the Microplane, applying gentle pressure as you move it in a downward motion. As you do this, you will see fine shreds of cheese falling out from the other side of the Microplane.
The Microplane is particularly useful for grating small amounts of Parmesan cheese, such as when you want to add a light garnish to a dish. It is also a convenient option when you want to offer your guests the option of freshly grated cheese. You can place a Microplane and a piece of Parmesan cheese on a plate and let everyone grate their desired amount of cheese onto their pasta or salad.
Compared to other grating methods, the Microplane stands out for its ease of use and the fine texture it produces. It is less physically demanding than a box grater, and it creates a more delicate texture than a food processor. The Microplane is also a good option if you want to avoid the additives often found in pre-grated Parmesan cheese, such as anti-caking agents and preservatives.
In summary, using a Microplane to grate Parmesan cheese is a simple and effective method for producing fine shreds of cheese. It is ideal for small quantities and offers a convenient way to provide freshly grated cheese for yourself and your guests.
Isaac's Pasta Salad: Parmesan Cheese Addition
You may want to see also
Using a box grater
Grating Parmesan cheese using a box grater is a great way to get medium quantities of cheese for your recipe. It is a preferred method for grating 1-2 cups of Parmesan.
To start, cut the Parmesan into smaller chunks, about 1/4 inch in size. This will make it easier to grate the cheese and reduce the time spent preparing it. When using a box grater, it is best to use the side with smaller holes for Parmesan. Hold the grater firmly on a flat surface with one hand and rub the cut side of the cheese along the surface in a back and forth motion. The cheese will begin to break down into shreds, which you can collect in a bowl or plate.
If you are grating a large quantity of cheese, you may need to clear the cheese from the grater to maintain efficiency. To do this, take a butter knife and run it between the diagonal rows of the grater to remove any cheese that may be stuck.
Where to Find Whisps Parmesan Cheese Crisps
You may want to see also
Using a food processor
Grating Parmesan cheese in a food processor is a quick and easy way to get freshly grated cheese. It is also a safer alternative to using a box grater, which can be a bloody task (literally).
To start, you will need a mid-grade or better food processor. Mini food processors may not be powerful enough and could break the blade or burn out the motor. Most food processors have a grater attachment, but this is not necessary. The regular metal blade will work just fine.
Next, cut the Parmesan into small cubes or chunks. This will prevent the processor from having to work too hard to break them down. The size of the chunks will depend on the power of your processor. If you are using a less powerful processor, cut the Parmesan into smaller, 1/4-inch chunks. For more powerful processors, you can cut the cheese into larger, 1/2- to 1-inch cubes.
Now, add the Parmesan chunks to the bowl of the food processor. Be careful not to overfill the bowl. For a 1-1/2 pound wedge of cheese, process half at a time. Place the lid on the processor and pulse in short bursts until you achieve the desired texture. The time required will depend on the hardness of the cheese and the desired texture. For a coarse texture, process for about two minutes. For a finer texture, process for about three minutes. Stop and check the consistency periodically. If there are still some chunky bits, keep processing.
Once you have achieved the desired consistency, you can store the grated Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Alternatively, you can freeze it in freezer-safe bags for up to three months.
Parmesan Sharpness: Is It a Sharp Cheese?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Buying pre-grated parmesan
When buying pre-grated Parmesan cheese, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you're getting a quality product. Firstly, check the ingredient list. Authentic Parmesan cheese should only contain three ingredients: milk, salt, and rennet. If you see a long list of additives and preservatives, it's best to avoid that product.
Look for a reputable brand that specializes in cheese products and has a history of producing high-quality Parmesan. Reading reviews online can also give you an idea of the taste and texture of the cheese and whether it meets your expectations. A good pre-grated Parmesan should have a coarse texture, appearing almost sandy, and be a light yellow color.
The container is also important. Pre-grated Parmesan is usually sold in containers with shaker tops, which is convenient for storage and use. Ensure the container is well-sealed to prevent moisture from entering and affecting the cheese. Check the 'best before' date to ensure you can consume the cheese within a reasonable time frame.
Price is also an indicator of quality. Pre-grated Parmesan is generally more expensive than other grated cheese products, and a very low price might indicate a lower-quality product. However, this doesn't mean the most expensive option is always the best. Compare prices and read reviews to find a product that offers the right balance of quality and value.
By considering these factors, you can purchase pre-grated Parmesan cheese with confidence, knowing that you're getting a convenient and tasty product that will enhance your meals.
Kraft Parmesan: Lactose-Free?
You may want to see also
Storing grated parmesan
To store grated Parmesan cheese, it is best to use an airtight container to prevent moisture from getting to the cheese. This will dramatically reduce the likelihood of the cheese clumping and the flavour changing. Cool temperatures also make it harder for food to absorb moisture, so the container should be placed in a refrigerator, ideally kept below 5°C.
To further prevent clumping, grated Parmesan can be stored with a little cornstarch, which will absorb any excess moisture without affecting the flavour or quality of the cheese. It is also possible to wrap grated Parmesan in wax paper or cheese paper before placing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
When stored in the correct conditions, grated Parmesan will last for up to two months in the fridge. However, it will taste best and be least likely to clump if used within two weeks of storage. Therefore, it is recommended not to grate more Parmesan than can be used within this time frame.
If storing for longer than two months, grated Parmesan can be frozen in an airtight container or freezer bag. Frozen shredded Parmesan can last for three to six months, although some flavour and texture may be lost.
Parmesan Cheese and Whey: What's the Connection?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
The best way to grate parmesan cheese is by using a Microplane, box grater, or food processor. If you are grating a small amount of cheese, a Microplane is the best option. For medium quantities, a box grater is ideal, and for large quantities, a food processor is the best option.
Grating your own parmesan cheese is beneficial because it is cheaper, healthier, and fresher than store-bought grated parmesan cheese. Additionally, store-bought grated parmesan cheese often contains preservatives and anti-caking agents that can affect the taste and texture of the cheese.
To grate parmesan cheese using a food processor, first cut the parmesan into small chunks, roughly 1/4 inch to 1-1/2 inch in size. Then, add the chunks to the bowl of the food processor fitted with a metal blade. Turn on the food processor and process until the cheese is grated to your desired texture.
Grated parmesan cheese can be used in a variety of dishes, including pasta, salads, soups, and baked dishes such as eggplant parm bake. It can also be used as a garnish or topping for dishes like croutons or homemade pesto.
