Kamil Perry
Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese that can be crumbled or grated and used as a topping or ingredient in various dishes. While store-bought grated Parmesan cheese is convenient, freshly grated Parmesan has a better flavour and texture, and it melts better. To crumble Parmesan cheese, you can use a grater, microplane, blender, or food processor. If you grate the cheese yourself, you can also save money and avoid additives like potato starch and natamycin, which are added to pre-grated cheese to prevent clumping but can affect melting.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Best type of parmesan cheese | A block of parmesan cheese from a parmesan wheel |
| Best tool for grating | Microplane, blender, food processor |
| How to store | In an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days |
| How to make parmesan crisps | Bake at 400 degrees F for 3-5 minutes, then cool |
| How to make parmesan crumble | Mix 1 cup of panko with 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup of melted butter |
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What You'll Learn
Grating by hand
Grating Parmesan cheese by hand is a convenient option if you don't have access to a food processor or blender. It is also a good way to ensure that your cheese is freshly grated, which tends to provide more flavour.
To grate Parmesan cheese by hand, you will need a block of Parmesan cheese and a grater. You can use a box grater, a microplane grater, or a rotary grater, depending on your preference. Start by cutting the block of Parmesan cheese into smaller chunks or cubes. This will make it easier to handle and grate the cheese. You can also freeze the cheese for about an hour before grating it to help it maintain its consistency and prevent clumping.
Once the cheese is cut into manageable pieces, hold the grater steady with one hand and rub the cut side of the cheese against the grating surface with the other hand. Apply firm but controlled pressure to the cheese as you move it back and forth across the grater. The cheese will start to crumble and create shreds of varying sizes, depending on the pressure you apply and the coarseness of your grater.
Continue grating the cheese until you have the desired amount and consistency. Be careful to avoid grating your knuckles on the grater, as this can be painful. If you have leftover grated Parmesan, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
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Grating with a blender
Grating parmesan cheese with a blender is a quick and easy way to crumble the cheese. It is also less messy than using a microplane grater.
First, cut the parmesan cheese into cubes or pieces. The size of the pieces will depend on the size of your blender and its tube. For example, cut the cheese into one to two-inch pieces if your blender has a small tube. If you are using a food processor, cut the cheese into rough cubes of about half to one inch square.
Next, place the cheese pieces into the blender. If you are using a food processor, place the cheese into the feed tube of the lid, ensuring it rests on the shredding disc. If your blender does not have a feed tube, simply place the cheese pieces directly into the blender.
Now, turn on the blender. If your blender has a speed button, set it to the desired level based on your model. For example, Blender Babes recommends using speed five or six on a Vitamix blender and blending for 15-30 seconds. If you are using a food processor, slowly feed the cheese through the feed tube. If you want a powdery texture, skip the shredding disc and place the cheese directly into the food processor bowl. Pulse the blender until the cheese reaches your desired consistency.
Finally, use the freshly grated parmesan cheese as required. You can store any leftover grated cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to seven days.
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Grating with a food processor
Grating parmesan cheese with a food processor is a quick and easy way to crumble the hard cheese. It is also a great alternative if you don't want to use a box grater or microplane.
First, you will need to cut the parmesan into small cubes or chunks. This will prevent your food processor from working too hard to break down the cheese. The smaller the cubes, the faster the grating process. However, cutting the parmesan into smaller pieces will take up more time.
Next, place the cubes into a sturdy food processor. If you have a mini food processor, it is recommended to cut the parmesan into smaller pieces to avoid breaking the blade or burning out the motor. You can use the grater attachment that comes with your food processor or the regular blade.
Now, turn on the food processor and pulse the cheese in short increments of a few seconds until you reach your desired consistency. The process will be loud at first but will get quieter as the cheese breaks down. If you want a fine powder, continue processing the cheese for longer intervals.
Finally, use the grated parmesan as required in your recipe or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
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Storing leftover grated parmesan
Use an Airtight Container
The simplest way to store leftover grated Parmesan is to use an airtight container. This prevents moisture from getting to the cheese, reducing the likelihood of clumping and flavour alteration. It is important to note that cool temperatures also help prevent moisture absorption, so the container should be stored in a refrigerator.
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To further prevent clumping, you can add a small amount of cornstarch, flour, or arrowroot powder to your grated Parmesan. These ingredients absorb moisture without affecting the flavour or quality of the cheese.
Freeze for Long-Term Storage
If you have a larger amount of leftover grated Parmesan or won't be using it within a few weeks, consider freezing it. Place the airtight container in the freezer, where it will stay fresh and clump-free for up to six months. Frozen shredded Parmesan can be used straight from the freezer; simply shake it to break up any clumps before use.
Other Storage Options
If you don't use Parmesan frequently, you can cut it into pieces, wrap them in cellophane, and freeze them. This way, you can take out a portion as needed without having to worry about the rest going bad. Additionally, if you prefer to buy pre-grated Parmesan, choose the grated cheese in a bag over the pre-packaged shaker, as the shaker packaging encourages moisture and clumping.
By following these storage tips, you can keep your leftover grated Parmesan fresh and flavourful, extending its shelf life and ensuring it enhances your dishes to the fullest.
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Making parmesan crisps
Parmesan crisps are a great keto and low-carb snack option and can be made in just a few simple steps. Here is a detailed guide on how to make them:
Ingredients
- Parmesan cheese (fresh or pre-shredded)
- Baking sheet
- Silicone baking mat or parchment paper
- Grater or microplane
- Spices (optional)
Step 1: Grate the Parmesan Cheese
Start by grating the parmesan cheese into shreds. Freshly grated parmesan is recommended, as it has a finer texture and a fresher flavour than pre-shredded cheese. It also melts better due to the absence of anti-clumping additives in pre-shredded cheese. You can grate the cheese using a grater or a microplane. If you don't have either of these, you can use a blender by cutting the parmesan into small cubes and pulsing them until they reach the desired consistency.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (360°F/180°C fan also works). Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat, which works best, or parchment paper. If you are making multiple batches, you can reuse the paper or baking mat.
Step 3: Arrange the Grated Parmesan
Place a heaping tablespoon of grated parmesan on the lined baking sheet. Lightly pat it down, but not too much, as the cheese will melt and flatten on its own. Leave some space between each mound, as they will spread out and melt together if placed too close. You can also add your favourite herbs and spices on top before baking to enhance the flavour.
Step 4: Bake the Parmesan Crisps
Bake the parmesan crisps in the oven for 3 to 8 minutes, keeping an eye on them to prevent burning. They should turn golden and crispy. The baking time may vary depending on your oven and the desired crispness.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the parmesan crisps from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet. They will continue to crisp up as they cool. Loosen them gently with a knife or spatula, and transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 weeks or in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Enjoy them as a snack or as a crunchy topping on your favourite dishes!
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Frequently asked questions
The best way to crumble parmesan cheese is to use a microplane grater. If you need a larger amount, you can cut the parmesan into pieces and use a food processor or blender.
Pre-shredded parmesan cheese contains additives like potato starch and natamycin, which prevent the cheese from melting properly. Crumbling your own parmesan cheese will also save you money.
You can store freshly crumbled parmesan cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to seven days.
Yes, you can freeze crumbled parmesan cheese. Cut a block of parmesan into pieces, grate it, and then wrap the crumbled cheese in cellophane before freezing.
