Andy Montoya
Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese with a low moisture content, which means it will last longer than soft cheeses. To store a block of Parmesan cheese, it is important to wrap the cheese first to prevent condensation and to preserve its humidity. You can use parchment paper, cheesecloth, wax paper, or food-grade plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped cheese in the refrigerator, ideally in the deli compartment, at a temperature between 4 to 8°C. A whole, unopened block of Parmesan cheese can last seven to nine months in the refrigerator, while an opened block will last one to two months.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Wrapping | Parchment paper, cheesecloth, wax paper, wax cloth wrap, plastic wrap, aluminium foil, cling wrap, or food-grade plastic film |
| Container | Glass or plastic container |
| Refrigerator temperature | 4 to 8°C (39 to 46°F) |
| Fridge location | Bottom, or in a crisper drawer, away from other food |
| Vacuum-packed | Can be stored in the fridge for several months |
| Unopened block | Lasts seven to nine months in the refrigerator |
| Opened block | Lasts one to two months in the refrigerator |
| Grated | Lasts about one week in the refrigerator |
| Freezing | Can be frozen in an airtight container or freezer bag; shredded lasts three to six months, a wedge lasts over a year |
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What You'll Learn
- Wrapping: Use parchment, wax, or cheese paper to prevent condensation
- Containers: Store in glass or plastic containers to protect from odours
- Fridge placement: Keep at the bottom, away from other foods
- Temperature: Aim for 4-8°C to maintain freshness
- Freezing: Freeze grated parmesan in an airtight container or bag
Wrapping: Use parchment, wax, or cheese paper to prevent condensation
Parchment paper, wax paper, and cheese paper are all excellent options for wrapping Parmesan cheese. These materials help to regulate humidity, allowing the cheese to breathe and preventing condensation.
When storing Parmesan cheese, it is essential to consider its moisture content. Parmesan is a hard cheese with low moisture content, which gives it a longer shelf life than soft cheeses. However, if not stored properly, moisture can cause spoilage and condensation, leading to mould growth.
Wrapping Parmesan cheese in parchment, wax, or cheese paper helps maintain the ideal humidity level. These papers are breathable, allowing a controlled amount of airflow while also providing a barrier against excess moisture. They create a microclimate around the cheese, slowing the transfer of moisture from the surrounding environment to the cheese surface.
Additionally, these papers serve as a protective layer, providing physical protection against accidental damage and helping to preserve the cheese's aroma and flavour. They also act as a barrier against odours, reducing the absorption of other smells from the refrigerator.
When using parchment, wax, or cheese paper, ensure that the paper is wrapped tightly around the cheese. This prevents air gaps that could increase the risk of condensation. It is also important to inspect the paper periodically and replace it if it becomes damp or damaged. By following these practices, you can effectively maintain the quality and longevity of your Parmesan cheese.
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Containers: Store in glass or plastic containers to protect from odours
Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese with a low moisture content, which means it will last longer than soft cheese. An unopened block of Parmesan can be stored in the refrigerator for seven to nine months, while an opened block will last for one to two months. However, it's important to note that the cheese should be wrapped or stored in an airtight container to prevent spoilage from moisture.
When it comes to containers, glass or plastic containers are ideal for storing Parmesan cheese. This type of packaging protects the cheese from absorbing odours from other foods in the refrigerator. The fatty nature of cheese makes it prone to absorbing smells, so keeping it in a sealed container maintains its aromatic characteristics and ensures optimal preservation.
It is recommended to store Parmesan cheese in the refrigerator, separate from other foods. The ideal temperature range for storing Parmesan is between 4 to 8°C (39 to 46°F). This temperature range ensures the cheese retains its organoleptic features and stays fresh for a longer period.
Some sources suggest wrapping Parmesan cheese in wax paper, parchment paper, cheesecloth, or food-grade plastic film to preserve humidity and prevent drying out. However, others recommend against using plastic wrap as it can trap moisture and create an environment for mould to grow.
By following these storage guidelines, you can effectively preserve the quality and flavour of your Parmesan cheese, ensuring it lasts for several months.
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Fridge placement: Keep at the bottom, away from other foods
Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese with a low moisture content, which means it will last longer than soft cheese. An unopened block of Parmesan can last seven to nine months in the refrigerator, while an opened block will last one to two months. To ensure your cheese lasts as long as possible, it is important to store it correctly.
When it comes to fridge placement, it is best to keep Parmesan at the bottom of the refrigerator, away from other foods. This is because the fatty part of the cheese tends to absorb other smells present in the refrigerator. Keeping it at the bottom of the fridge helps to prevent it from absorbing other odours.
Wrapping the cheese in food-grade plastic wrap or wax paper can also help to preserve the cheese's humidity and prevent it from drying out or absorbing other smells. It is important to tightly wrap the cheese after every use.
The ideal storage temperature for Parmesan cheese is between 4 to 8°C (39 to 46°F). At this temperature, the cheese will maintain its organoleptic features and aromatic characteristics.
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Temperature: Aim for 4-8°C to maintain freshness
Temperature is a critical factor in storing Parmesan cheese blocks. The ideal temperature range for storing Parmesan cheese is between 4°C and 8°C. This temperature range ensures the cheese maintains its optimal freshness and quality.
Parmigiano Reggiano, the traditional variety of Parmesan cheese, is best stored within this temperature range to preserve its distinctive organoleptic features and aromatic characteristics. It is worth noting that this variety of Parmesan has strict aging requirements and quality standards, which contribute to its unique flavour and texture.
Storing Parmesan at the correct temperature helps prevent spoilage caused by moisture and condensation. Parmesan is a hard cheese with a low moisture content, which naturally extends its shelf life. However, improper storage can introduce moisture, promoting mould growth and spoilage.
By maintaining a temperature between 4°C and 8°C, you can effectively slow down any bacterial growth and prevent premature deterioration of the cheese. This temperature range also helps preserve the cheese's texture and flavour, ensuring it remains fresh and delicious for consumption.
Therefore, it is essential to monitor the temperature of your refrigerator or storage area to ensure it aligns with the recommended range. This proactive measure will help extend the lifespan of your Parmesan cheese block and guarantee its freshness and quality over a more extended period.
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Freezing: Freeze grated parmesan in an airtight container or bag
Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese with a low moisture content, which means it will last longer than soft cheeses. However, if you have a large block of parmesan, you may want to freeze it to extend its shelf life. Freezing grated parmesan is a great option for storage.
To freeze grated parmesan, first, grate the parmesan cheese. Then, place the grated cheese into an airtight container or bag. Make sure the container or bag is suitable for freezing and completely airtight to prevent moisture from getting in or out. Label the container or bag with the date of freezing. Finally, place the container or bag in the freezer.
Frozen grated parmesan can last for three to six months in the freezer. When you are ready to use it, simply take it out of the freezer and shake it to break up any clumps before using it. You can also transfer the frozen grated parmesan to an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will last for about a week.
Freezing grated parmesan is a convenient way to extend the shelf life of your parmesan cheese and ensure that you always have some on hand when you need it.
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Frequently asked questions
An unopened block of parmesan cheese can last seven to nine months in the refrigerator, while an opened block will last one to two months.
Wrap the cheese in parchment paper, cheesecloth, wax paper, or a wax cloth wrap. Then, place the wrapped cheese in a glass or plastic container or cover it in plastic wrap or aluminium foil. Finally, put it in the refrigerator, ideally in the deli compartment, at a temperature between 4 to 8°C.
It is not advisable to freeze parmesan cheese unless it has been previously grated or shredded. Freezing can affect the texture and taste of the cheese. However, if you choose to freeze it, use an airtight container or freezer bag, and it will last for three to six months.
