Kamil Perry
Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese produced with partially skimmed raw milk and is cooked and slowly matured. The form of parmesan cheese is externally cylindrical in shape, with 2 flat sides 35-45cm wide, about 20-26cm high, with a weight of at least 30kg. A wheel of true parmigiano reggiano can weigh upwards of 80lbs and cost over $1600.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Shape | Externally cylindrical with 2 flat sides |
| Width | 35-45 cm |
| Height | 20-26 cm |
| Minimum weight | 30 kg |
| Rind thickness | 6mm |
| Fat content | Minimum of 32% |
| Aging period | Minimum of 12 months |
| Flavor | Nutty, fruity, grassy |
| Texture | Rich and creamy |
| Price | $600-$1600 |
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What You'll Learn
Parmigiano Reggiano wheels typically weigh 35-40 kg
Parmigiano Reggiano, also known as Parmesan, is a type of cheese produced in Italy. It is a hard cheese, cooked and slowly matured, and produced with partially skimmed raw milk. The minimum ageing process foresees 12 months, but some varieties are aged for up to 72 months. The ageing process is crucial, as this is when Parmigiano Reggiano changes character and transforms into a unique, universally coveted cheese.
When buying a full wheel of Parmigiano Reggiano, it is essential to consider the storage options and proper handling to ensure the cheese remains fresh and mould-free. It is recommended to store the whole wheel at a temperature between 8° and 10° Celsius. Once cut, the cheese should be wrapped in plastic film or greaseproof paper and placed in the lower part of the refrigerator at a temperature between 4° and 8° Celsius.
Due to the weight and size of a full wheel, it may be more practical for individuals to purchase smaller portions, such as quarters or eighths, from specialty cheese shops or retailers. These shops can provide fresher and better-tasting cheese, and smaller portions are easier to handle and store.
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Smaller wheels of 20 lbs are available
Smaller wheels of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese are available for those who don't want to purchase a full wheel, which typically weighs 35-40 kg (75-82 lbs). Smaller wheels typically weigh 20 lbs, which is half the weight of a full wheel.
Parmigiano Reggiano cheese is a hard cheese that is cooked and slowly matured, produced with partially skimmed raw milk. The minimum ageing process is 12 months, but it can be aged for up to 72 months. The longer the ageing process, the more intense the flavour and aroma of the cheese.
When purchasing a full wheel of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, it is important to consider the storage options and how to shred or grate the cheese as needed. It is recommended to keep the cheese wrapped and stored in a cool place, such as the refrigerator. Any mould that forms on the cheese should be cut off immediately.
Smaller wheels of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese are a more manageable size for most people and can be purchased from specialty cheese shops or online retailers.
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Full wheels can cost upwards of $1600
Parmigiano Reggiano, or Parmesan, is a type of cheese produced only in specific provinces in Italy, including Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, Bologna to the west of the Reno River, and Mantua to the east of the Po River. The strict production requirements and specific area of production contribute to the high cost of full wheels of Parmesan cheese, which can exceed $1600.
The high cost of Parmesan cheese can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the production of Parmesan cheese is highly regulated and adheres to strict standards. The milk used must meet specific requirements, and the use of food additives is prohibited. The cheese is produced using traditional methods, including slow maturation, which adds to the cost.
Additionally, the ageing process plays a crucial role in the flavour and texture of Parmesan cheese. The minimum ageing time for Parmesan is 12 months, but it is often aged for longer periods, ranging from 18 to 72 months. This ageing process contributes to the unique characteristics of the cheese but also increases its cost due to the time and specialized conditions required.
Another factor influencing the cost is the labour-intensive nature of cheese production. The process involves various steps, from curdling and cooking the milk to moulding and salting the cheese. Each step requires skilled artisans and labour costs contribute to the overall price.
Furthermore, the equipment and specialty chemicals used in cheese production are costly. This includes items such as specific knives, copper boilers, and sanitizing sprays. The rigorous quality control and food safety testing required for Parmesan cheese also add to the overall expense.
Lastly, the space required to ripen the cheese can be expensive. Adequate space is necessary to ensure proper fermentation and maturation, and the cost of land can be significant, especially in the designated production areas in Italy.
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Parmesan wheels are externally cylindrical with 2 flat sides
Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese produced with partially skimmed raw milk. It is cooked and slowly matured, with a minimum maturation period of 12 months. Parmesan wheels are externally cylindrical in shape with two flat sides. These sides are 35-45cm wide and the wheel is about 20-26cm high. A full wheel of parmesan weighs at least 30kg, with some sources stating that a true Parmigiano Reggiano wheel weighs between 35-40kg. Other sources state that a full wheel can weigh 75lbs (approximately 34kg) or 82lbs (approximately 37kg).
The maturation process is crucial to the development of parmesan's unique characteristics. During maturation, the cheese transforms from having youthful aromas of fresh fruit, grass, flowers, and milk to a more pronounced crumbliness and spicier flavours. At 36 months and beyond, the cheese becomes even crumblier, with fresh fruit aromas giving way to more intense dried fruit nuances.
Parmesan cheese is typically sold in smaller portions, such as quarters or eighths, rather than full wheels. This is because a full wheel can be challenging to store and maintain freshness. Proper storage is essential to prevent the cheese from drying out and developing mold. When stored correctly, a full wheel of parmesan can last for 6-12 months or more.
When cutting and grating parmesan, it is important to use clean tools and work surfaces to prevent contamination and mold growth. It is recommended to cut off small pieces as needed, rather than shredding or cutting the entire wheel at once.
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The minimum ageing process is 12 months
Parmigiano Reggiano, or Parmesan cheese, undergoes a crucial ageing process that transforms it into a unique, universally coveted cheese. The minimum ageing period for this cheese is 12 months, during which the cheese matures and develops its characteristic flavour and aroma.
The ageing process starts with the formation of the cheese wheel, which is externally cylindrical with two flat sides 35-45 cm wide and a height of 20-26 cm. Each wheel weighs at least 30 kg and has a straw-yellow rind that is about 6 mm thick. The cheese paste inside is fragrant, delicate, tasty, and not spicy, with a characteristic flavour and aroma. The structure is minutely grainy, and the fat content corresponds to a minimum of 32%.
During the minimum 12-month ageing period, the cheese continues to mature and develop its distinct characteristics. The maturation process involves the formation of tyrosine granules, which contribute to the cheese's texture and flavour. While the typical aromas of younger maturations include milk, yogurt, and hay, the 12-month ageing process allows for the development of more complex scents, such as woody, smoky, spicy, and citrus notes.
The minimum ageing period ensures that the Parmesan cheese develops a well-rounded flavour profile and texture. At this stage, the cheese is still considered relatively young, exhibiting youthful aromas with nuances of fresh fruit, grass, flowers, and milk. The balance between sweetness and savouriness is just beginning to emerge, and the cheese has a pronounced crumbliness that highlights its characteristic grain.
The 12-month ageing process is just the beginning for Parmesan cheese, as it can continue to age and develop more complex characteristics. Longer ageing periods of 18 months, 24 months, and beyond further accentuate the crumbliness of the cheese, while also intensifying its aromas and flavours.
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Frequently asked questions
A wheel of Parmesan cheese typically weighs between 35-45 kg (or 75-82 lbs). Its cylindrical shape has two flat sides that are 35-45cm wide and a height of 20-26cm.
You can buy a wheel of Parmesan cheese online from retailers such as Amazon and Emilia Food Love. You may also be able to find them at your local cheese shop or Whole Foods store, although they may only stock smaller portions.
A whole wheel of Parmesan cheese should be kept at a temperature between 8° and 10° C. Once cut, place the Parmesan in the fridge at a temperature between 4° and 8° C. Keep it well-wrapped in cling film and ensure the crust is clean to avoid mould formation.
