Randy Chandler
Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese with a long shelf life if stored properly. It is best to store it in the refrigerator, wrapped in wax paper, parchment paper, cheesecloth, or a slightly damp cotton cloth. It can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but it is important to note that moisture will cause spoilage. Vacuum-packed Parmesan can be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature ranging from 4 to 8°C. It is important to ensure that the package is sealed and intact to prevent mould from forming.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 39 to 46 degrees F (4 to 8 degrees C) |
| Refrigerator location | Bottom, vegetable crisper, or deli compartment |
| Wrapping | Wax paper, parchment paper, plastic wrap, or aluminium foil |
| Container | Glass or plastic |
| Air exposure | Limited |
| Humidity | Optimal |
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What You'll Learn
- Wrapping: use wax paper, parchment paper, cheesecloth, or wax cloth wrap
- Containers: use an airtight container, especially for grated parmesan
- Temperature: store between 4-8°C, or freeze for longer storage
- Location: store in the refrigerator, or in a cool cupboard
- Timing: use within two weeks for best flavour
Wrapping: use wax paper, parchment paper, cheesecloth, or wax cloth wrap
Parchment paper, wax paper, cheesecloth, and wax cloth wrap are all great options for wrapping Parmesan cheese. These materials strike a balance between airflow and humidity, preventing the cheese from drying out or becoming soggy.
When using parchment or wax paper, cut the paper large enough to wrap the entire block of Parmesan cheese with some extra to fold over. Then, wrap the cheese in the paper, followed by a loose wrap of plastic to maintain freshness. Alternatively, you can use wax cloth wraps, which are reusable and environmentally friendly. They allow the cheese to breathe more than plastic wrap, preventing mould growth.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can try cheese waxing. This method involves melting wax specifically made for cheese and painting it onto the cheese. With this method, you won't need to keep the cheese in the fridge, and it can last for a long time.
Properly wrapping Parmesan cheese is crucial for maintaining its quality, flavour, and freshness. By using the right materials and techniques, you can extend the shelf life of your cheese and enjoy it at its best.
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Containers: use an airtight container, especially for grated parmesan
Parmesan cheese is a hard, low-moisture cheese with a rich flavour. Its unique characteristics can be preserved by using proper storage methods. One of the most important aspects of storing Parmesan is to control the exposure to air. While the cheese should be allowed to breathe a little, full and prolonged exposure to air can cause oxidation, which degrades both flavour and texture.
To strike the right balance, it is recommended to use airtight containers, especially for grated Parmesan. Glass or plastic containers are ideal for this purpose, as they create a barrier against air while maintaining optimal humidity levels. The container should be stored in the refrigerator, preferably in the vegetable crisper or the deli compartment, to further regulate humidity and prevent the cheese from drying out.
When using airtight containers, it is essential to ensure that the container is not too large for the amount of cheese being stored. A container that is too big can result in excess air inside, which can impact the quality of the cheese over time. Therefore, it is advisable to use a container that is just the right size or to transfer the cheese to a smaller container as it is used up.
Additionally, it is important to regularly check the condition of the Parmesan and the container. Make sure there is no condensation forming inside the container, as this can promote the growth of mould. If condensation occurs, consider using a different type of container or wrapping the cheese in a paper towel before placing it in the container.
By following these guidelines for container storage, you can effectively preserve the quality and flavour of grated Parmesan cheese.
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Temperature: store between 4-8°C, or freeze for longer storage
Parmesan cheese is best stored at a temperature of between 4°C and 8°C. This is equivalent to 39°F and 46°F. The ideal place to store Parmesan in the refrigerator is the vegetable crisper, as it has the right level of humidity. It should be wrapped tightly to limit its exposure to air, which can cause the cheese to degrade.
If you are storing Parmesan cheese for a longer period, it can be frozen, but only if it has been previously ground. Freezing Parmesan will alter the texture and taste, so it is not recommended unless absolutely necessary.
There are several methods for wrapping Parmesan cheese to store it in the refrigerator. One way is to wrap the cheese in a slightly moistened paper towel and then in a layer of aluminium foil. This method is also recommended for larger chunks of cheese. Another option is to wrap the cheese in parchment paper and then in plastic wrap or foil. Alternatively, you can simply wrap the cheese in parchment, wax paper, or butcher paper.
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Location: store in the refrigerator, or in a cool cupboard
Parmesan cheese should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature between 39 to 46 degrees F (4 to 8 degrees C). The cheese should be kept away from other foods to prevent it from absorbing their odours. The deli compartment in the fridge works great for this.
Wrap the cheese tightly after every use. Wax paper is recommended to preserve the cheese's humidity and prevent it from drying out, although parchment paper can be used in a pinch. Alternatively, you can wrap the cheese in a wax cloth wrap, which lets the cheese breathe more than plastic wrap.
If you have a lot of cheese that you don't think you'll eat very quickly, you could freeze it, although it won't taste quite the same. You could also try waxing the cheese, which will allow you to store it for a long time without needing to keep it in the fridge.
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Timing: use within two weeks for best flavour
Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese with a rich flavour and a long shelf life. However, to enjoy it at its best, it is recommended that you consume it within two weeks. The ideal storage temperature for Parmesan is between 39 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit (4 to 8 degrees Celsius).
The cheese should be stored in the refrigerator, with the deli compartment or vegetable crisper being the best spots to maintain the desired temperature and humidity level. Parmesan should be kept away from other foods to prevent it from absorbing their odours and to maintain its unique flavour.
To ensure optimal preservation, it is crucial to wrap the cheese tightly after each use. Various wrapping methods can be employed, each with its own advantages. One recommended method is to wrap the cheese in a slightly moistened paper towel to maintain humidity, and then in a layer of aluminium foil. This combination provides a balanced environment for the cheese.
Another effective approach is to use parchment paper, followed by either plastic wrap or foil. Parchment paper helps preserve the cheese by regulating humidity, and the additional layer of plastic wrap or foil enhances protection.
For convenience and ease of storage, some home cooks prefer to use a zipper-lock bag, squeezing out the air before sealing. This method is almost as effective as the previous methods and helps maintain the flavour and texture of the cheese for several weeks.
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Frequently asked questions
To store a block of Parmesan cheese, wrap it tightly in wax paper, then in heavy-duty aluminium foil, being careful not to poke the foil. Store it on the bottom shelf of your refrigerator.
Yes, you can store Parmesan cheese in the freezer. However, note that freezing will affect the texture and flavour of the cheese. It is recommended to only use defrosted Parmesan for baking or melting as some flavour and a lot of texture will be lost.
To store Parmesan cheese for a long time, you can look into cheese waxing. You can buy and melt wax specifically for cheese and paint it on. This method of storage does not require refrigeration.
