Kamil Perry
Parmesan cheese is a beloved Italian staple with a global following. Its unique flavour and texture are a result of the ageing process, which can last from 12 months to over 100 months. But how long is too long to age Parmesan cheese? And how long does it last in the fridge? Parmesan cheese can be aged for many years, with some claiming that even 40-year-old cheese is still technically edible. However, the general consensus is that Parmesan cheese is best enjoyed within a certain timeframe, with some drawing the line at 60 months. Proper storage is crucial to maintaining the flavour and texture of Parmesan cheese, and it is recommended to store it in an airtight container in the fridge to prolong its shelf life.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Minimum ageing period | 12 months |
| Ageing period for distinctive characteristics | 20-24 months |
| Ageing period for extraordinary aroma | 35-45 months |
| Ageing period for extraordinary flavour | Beyond 40 months |
| Maximum ageing period | 100 months |
| Storage | Air-removed plastic bag in the fridge |
| Shelf life | 8 months when sealed |
| Freezing | Only recommended for ground parmesan |
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What You'll Learn
Parmesan cheese can be aged for over 100 months
Parmesan cheese, also known as Parmigiano-Reggiano, is a delightful, crumbly cheese with a rich flavour. While it is well known that the ageing process is critical to the development of Parmesan's distinctive characteristics, it may come as a surprise that this cheese can be aged for over 100 months. That's eight whole years of ageing that results in a cheese with a robust and intense flavour, yet one that is also extraordinarily balanced and harmonious.
The ageing process is a critical phase in the production of Parmesan cheese. It is during this time that the cheese develops its distinctive organoleptic characteristics, such as its grainy texture and unique flavour. The longer the cheese is aged, the more intense and savoury its flavour becomes. For example, Parmesan cheese aged between 20 and 24 months has a stronger, more intense flavour compared to cheese aged for only 12 to 19 months, which has a simple flavour with notes of milk and butter.
Aged Parmesan cheese is highly sought-after by connoisseurs and those who appreciate authentic Italian excellence. When Parmesan cheese is aged for over 100 months, it develops an unforgettable taste that is well worth the long wait. The cheese takes on a bold and intense flavour, with hints of spices, tobacco, and even cocoa. This lengthy ageing process results in a rare and exceptional cheese that is sure to surprise and delight even the most devoted Parmesan enthusiasts.
The ageing process for Parmesan cheese requires careful control of temperature and humidity, as these factors influence how much moisture the cheese loses and how active the enzymes are. The use of different bacteria during this process also plays a crucial role in developing the cheese's unique taste. With each additional month of ageing, Parmesan cheese transforms, becoming more complex and aromatic. This slow and respectful journey, in harmony with the natural rhythm of the seasons, is what makes Parmesan cheese so exceptional.
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How to store Parmesan cheese
Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese with a lengthy aging process of a minimum of two years and occasionally more than four. Its aging process gives it a unique flavour and texture. To store Parmesan cheese, follow these steps:
Wrap the Parmesan Cheese
Wrapping the cheese is important as moisture will cause spoilage. You can wrap a wedge of Parmesan cheese in parchment paper, cheesecloth, cheese paper, or wax paper. You can also use a wax cloth wrap, which lets the cheese breathe more than plastic wrap. Store grated Parmesan in an airtight container.
Place in the Refrigerator
Cover the cheese block in plastic wrap or aluminium foil to prevent it from soaking up smells in the refrigerator. Place the wrapped cheese in a crisper drawer. A block of opened Parmesan cheese will last in the fridge for up to two months. A whole, unopened block of Parmesan cheese can keep for nine months. Parmigiano Reggiano can be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature ranging from 4 to 8°C. It is important to make sure that the package is sealed and tight, and not exposed to air.
Freeze the Cheese
You can also freeze Parmesan cheese in an airtight container or freezer bag. Shredded Parmesan cheese can last for three to six months, while a wedge of Parmesan cheese will stay in the freezer for over a year. Freezing parmesan cheese is only recommended if it’s already been ground. You can use shredded frozen cheese straight from the freezer—break up any clumping before use. Place a wedge of frozen Parmesan cheese on a countertop for ten minutes at room temperature to defrost before using.
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Parmesan cheese's unique qualities
Parmesan cheese, or Parmigiano-Reggiano, is a hard, gritty Italian cheese with a fruity and nutty taste. It is produced from cows grazing on fresh grass and hay and is typically grated over pasta, soups, and risottos. Parmesan has a long shelf life and can be aged for over 100 months, with its flavour and texture varying depending on the length of the aging process.
The aging process is the most critical phase in Parmesan cheese production. During this time, the cheese develops its distinctive organoleptic characteristics and grainy texture. Parmesan cheese reaches maturity and develops the right consistency and flavour after a minimum aging period of 12 months. The cheese aged during this period has a simple flavour with distinct notes of milk and butter.
Aging between 20 and 24 months gives Parmesan a more intense and savoury flavour, making it suitable for accompanying first courses and side dishes. With prolonged aging, between 35 and 45 months, Parmesan cheese develops an extraordinary aroma and a more crumbly and grainy texture, becoming a cheese with a unique profile. Parmesan cheese aged between 35 and 45 months is a true delight for lovers of this variety of cheese, with an intense and decisive flavour and notes reminiscent of dried fruit and spices.
When Parmesan cheese is aged for over 40 months, it reaches an extraordinary flavour, creating a product with truly unique aromatic characteristics. During this extended aging process, time and nature collaborate to give life to a cheese with an authentic and unforgettable taste. These extremely aged cheese wheels are absolute rarities, with a robust yet balanced and harmonious flavour. The presence of a final hint of sweetness surprises even the most devoted Parmesan cheese palates. The aromas are well-defined, with sensations reminiscent of spices, tobacco, and even cocoa in some cases.
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Signs of spoilage
Parmesan cheese is a hard, aged cheese with a low moisture content and high salt content, which gives it a long shelf life. However, it is still important to look out for signs of spoilage.
One sign that your Parmesan cheese has gone bad is visible mould growth that extends beyond surface cleaning. If there is only a small amount of mould, it is generally safe to cut off the affected portion and consume the rest of the cheese. However, if the cheese is turning blue, this indicates that it is too mouldy to eat. Clumps can also form just before mould, so this is another sign that your Parmesan has gone bad.
Off-putting odours, such as a sour or rancid smell, can also indicate that your Parmesan cheese has spoiled. Changes in texture, such as excessive dryness or the development of an oily film, are further signs of spoilage.
If you have consumed expired Parmesan cheese, the worst-case scenario is likely to be a mild case of foodborne illness, with symptoms such as an upset stomach, cramps, or diarrhoea. In severe cases, with symptoms such as a high fever, persistent vomiting, or dehydration, it is important to seek medical attention.
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Parmesan cheese's versatility
Parmesan cheese, or Parmigiano-Reggiano, is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Its distinctive flavour and crumbly texture make it a popular choice for adding bold flavours and rich textures to food. Parmesan is produced from cow's milk and has an intense, savoury aroma that can enhance any dish, from pasta to risotto to soups.
One of the most common uses for Parmesan is as a topping for pasta. It can be grated over pasta dishes, such as fettuccine, to add a unique level of flavour and texture. Parmesan can also be used in pasta sauces, such as a creamy sauce for chicken and bacon pasta or a garlic sauce for garlic bread. In addition, Parmesan can be used to make garlic Parmesan chicken tenders or added to a chicken Caesar salad for a weeknight lunch.
Another popular use for Parmesan is in soups. Grated Parmesan can be used as a garnish for soups, such as a rustic Italian wedding soup, to bring out the flavours and upgrade the mouthfeel. As the cheese melts into the hot soup, it adds a smooth texture and a milky taste, complementing the other ingredients.
Parmesan is also often used as a topping for roasted vegetables. It can be grated or shaved over vegetables, such as broccoli, or added to a salad. Parmesan also pairs well with other ingredients, including garlic, herbs, and fruits like pears and figs.
The versatility of Parmesan extends beyond its use as a topping or ingredient in dishes. Parmesan can also be enjoyed on its own as a snack or appetiser. Freshly grated Parmesan is considered the king of all cheeses and is preferred over the pre-grated kind, as it has a better flavour and texture. Authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano, which is produced in specific regions of Italy, is the most premium type of Parmesan and is perfect for eating alone with a glass of wine.
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Frequently asked questions
Shredded parmesan cheese stored in the fridge in a sealed container can last for about 8 months. Blocks of parmesan cheese can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag.
Yes, freezing parmesan cheese is recommended if it is already grated or shredded.
Parmesan cheese can develop mould, but it is generally safe to cut off the affected portion and consume the rest of the cheese. If there are noticeable changes in colour, texture, or smell, it is advisable to inspect the cheese closely and determine if it is safe to consume.
Parmesan cheese is typically aged between 12 and 45 months, with longer ageing resulting in a more intense flavour and aroma. Some sources mention parmesan cheese being aged for over 100 months or even 40 years!
Aged parmesan cheese can be shaved or sliced thinly and allowed to come to room temperature to fully appreciate its flavour. It can also be grated over pasta, risotto, or salad.
