Andy Montoya
Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese with a granular texture, made from cow's milk, and is often grated and sprinkled on top of salads and pasta dishes. It is also used in dishes such as macaroni and grilled cheese. Parmigiano-Reggiano, or the King of Cheeses, is the Italian version of Parmesan, produced in specific areas of Italy, including Parma and Reggio Emilia, and is subject to strict regulations. Outside of Italy, particularly in the US, the term Parmesan is often used to describe similar cheeses that do not meet these requirements, such as Grana Padano, and these are generally considered to be of lower quality. Grated Parmesan cheese is available in supermarkets, but it is generally recommended to buy a block of Parmesan and grate it yourself for better flavour.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Parmesan Cheese | Parmigiano-Reggiano, Grana Padano, Pecorino Romano, Piave, Grana |
| Type of Milk | Cow's milk, Sheep's milk |
| Origin | Bologna, Reggio Emilia, Mantua, Modena, Parma |
| Texture | Hard, granular |
| Taste | Complex, nutty, salty, sharp |
| Storage | Paper wrapping, cling wrap, glass/plastic container |
| Refrigeration | Not required, but recommended after opening |
| Shelf Life | 3-7 days at room temperature, up to 6 weeks refrigerated |
| Mold | Cut off moldy parts, safe to consume remaining cheese |
| Grated Parmesan Cheese | Kraft, BelGioioso, Frigo, Good & Gather, Sargento, Emporium Selection, Lucerne, Market Pantry, Reggano, Great Value |
| Grating Technique | Hand graters, grinders, pre-grated options |
| Grating Timing | Grate when using, not before freezing to retain flavor |
| Grated Parmesan Uses | Toppings for pasta, salads, snacks, macaroni and cheese |
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What You'll Learn
Grated Parmesan is best freshly grated
Grated Parmesan cheese is a popular topping for pasta, salads, and other dishes. While there are many options available in the market, the best grated Parmesan is freshly grated.
Freshly grated Parmesan has a superior taste and texture compared to pre-grated options. When Parmesan cheese is grated, it loses moisture over time, resulting in a drier and harder texture. This can affect its ability to blend seamlessly with other ingredients in a dish. Freshly grated Parmesan, on the other hand, retains its moisture and creamy texture, allowing it to melt and combine more easily with other flavours.
Additionally, the delicate flavour of Parmesan begins to dissipate once it is grated. Pre-grated Parmesan often sits on grocery store shelves for extended periods, resulting in a significant loss of flavour by the time it is purchased. Freshly grated Parmesan, grated just before use, preserves the delicate, nutty notes that define this cheese.
The quality of pre-grated Parmesan is also questionable. To extend shelf life and reduce production costs, some brands use lower-quality milk and add preservatives, fillers, or anti-caking agents. These additives can negatively impact the taste and texture of the cheese. Authentic Parmigiano Reggiano, on the other hand, is made in specific regions of Italy, following strict regulations that ensure quality and flavour.
While freshly grated Parmesan is the best option, it is important to note that not all pre-grated Parmesan cheeses are equal. Some brands, like BelGioioso, offer shredded Parmesan with a thin, dainty shred that melts beautifully. However, the majority of shelf-stable grated Parmesan cheeses tend to have a similar, underwhelming flavour. If convenience is a priority, choosing a higher-quality pre-grated option and using it sparingly can be a suitable alternative to freshly grated Parmesan.
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Kraft sells 100% grated Parmesan
In the United States, the term "Parmesan" is not regulated, and products like Kraft's grated Parmesan are considered imitations. These imitations may still be tasty, and many artisanal cheesemakers in the U.S. produce high-quality cheeses inspired by Parmigiano-Reggiano. However, the flavor and texture of pre-grated Parmesan are often inferior to freshly grated cheese.
When purchasing Parmesan, it is recommended to buy from specialty cheese stores, Italian markets, or supermarkets with knowledgeable cheesemongers who can guide you toward authentic products. Additionally, authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano should be wrapped in paper rather than cling wrap for storage.
While Kraft's grated Parmesan may be a convenient option, it is essential to understand the distinction between this product and traditional Parmigiano-Reggiano. For those seeking the highest quality and authentic flavor, investing in genuine Parmigiano-Reggiano or purchasing a block of Parmesan cheese and grating it fresh are recommended options.
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Parmigiano-Reggiano is the King of Cheeses
Parmigiano-Reggiano is often referred to as the "King of Cheeses", and this title is not undeserved. This handmade, unpasteurised cow's milk cheese has a long and rich history, with traditions that are still being practised today.
The name "Parmigiano Reggiano" reflects the places from which the cheese originated: the land between Parma and Reggio Emilia, two neighbouring towns in the Emilia-Romagna region in Northern Italy. "Parmigiano" means "of and from Parma", while "Reggiano" means "of or from Reggio". Today, Parmigiano-Reggiano can only be produced in the area of Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, and parts of Mantua and Bologna.
Parmigiano-Reggiano has a granular texture and a complex flavour, which are the result of long ageing. The minimum ageing time is 12 months, after which an expert called a Battitore evaluates each wheel of cheese. They do this by tapping each wheel with a specially designed hammer and listening for specific tones that indicate whether the cheese has aged properly. Each wheel that passes inspection is fire-branded with a government-regulated 'Consorzio Tutela Parmigiano Reggiano' certification mark on the rind to prevent counterfeiting.
The Consortium, or Conzorzio del Formaggio Parmigiano-Reggiano, was formed in 1934 by dairy farmers to promote consumer awareness of the uniqueness of Parmigiano-Reggiano and to uphold the product's name and origin. The Consortium has also been responsible for protecting, monitoring, and safeguarding Parmigiano-Reggiano's PDO (Protected Designation of Origin).
The production of Parmigiano-Reggiano began in medieval times by Benedictine monks in Italy. In the pre-refrigeration era, they created a way of preserving fresh milk by ageing large wheels of hard cheese, which had a much longer shelf life. This cheese cannot be imitated due to the type of cows, high-quality grass, and hay from the meadows and pastures of the Reggiano Apennines, which give the cheese its typical straw-yellow colour and intense flavour.
Parmigiano-Reggiano is best when freshly grated, and it is recommended to buy the whole piece and grate it yourself. It is a very strong-flavoured cheese, so a little goes a long way.
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Parmesan is made from cow's milk
Parmesan is a hard, granular cheese made from cow's milk. It is produced by combining whole milk and naturally skimmed milk, which is then pumped into copper-lined vats and heated. During the two-step heating process, additional ingredients like whey and rennet are added to form the curd. The cheese is then aged for at least 12 months, although some producers age it for much longer periods, up to 18, 24, or even 36 months. The lengthy aging process contributes to the complex flavour and extremely granular texture that Parmesan is known for.
In the United States, the term "Parmesan" is not regulated, and it may refer to any cow's milk cheese with a hard and brittle rind and a granular texture that grates readily. These domestic versions of Parmesan typically age for a minimum of 10 months and may use reconstituted dry milk, skim milk, and/or cream. They may also use additives and anti-clumping agents, which has led to some controversy and legal issues for certain manufacturers.
Outside of the European Union, the term "Parmesan" has become genericised and often refers to locally produced imitations of the original Italian cheese. These imitations are made from cow's milk and are generally pale yellow in colour, usually sold grated and used on dishes like pizza and Caesar salad. However, they do not have the same complex flavour and granular texture as authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano.
To ensure you are getting authentic Parmesan cheese, look for the words "Parmigiano-Reggiano" on the rind, which indicates that the cheese was produced in Italy in specific regions, including Parma, Reggio Emilia, Mantua, Modena, and Bologna. This cheese is made from unpasteurised cow's milk and follows stringent production methods. It is considered the "'King of Cheeses" in Italy and is known for its superior flavour and quality.
When using Parmesan cheese in recipes, it is generally recommended to grate it fresh rather than using pre-grated options. Freshly grated Parmesan has a superior flavour and texture compared to pre-grated versions, which may contain additives and anti-clumping agents. Additionally, freshly grated Parmesan melts better and can elevate the taste of your dishes.
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Parmesan is ideal for sprinkling on salads and pasta
Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese with a granular texture and a nutty flavour. It is made from cow's milk and is typically aged for at least 10 months, although the traditional Parmigiano-Reggiano variety is aged for longer, contributing to its complex flavour and granular texture. Parmigiano-Reggiano is produced in specific regions of Italy, including Parma, Reggio Emilia, Mantua, Modena, and Bologna, and is considered the "King of Cheeses". Outside of Italy, particularly in the US, the term "Parmesan" is used more loosely to describe similar cheeses that may not meet the strict requirements for Parmigiano-Reggiano. These can include domestic cheeses, as well as imported varieties from Italy, Argentina, and Australia.
While Parmesan can be enjoyed on its own or incorporated into various dishes, its texture makes it ideal for grating or shaving. Grated Parmesan is a versatile ingredient that can be sprinkled on a variety of dishes to enhance their flavour. One of the most popular uses of grated Parmesan is as a topping for salads and pasta dishes. The sharpness of Parmesan adds a indulgent touch to pasta, and it can also be used in place of traditional cheese in grilled cheese sandwiches. When used in macaroni and cheese, Parmesan lends a rich, sharp flavour that takes the dish to the next level.
When it comes to purchasing Parmesan, it is worth noting that freshly grated cheese is generally preferred over pre-grated options. Freshly grated Parmesan has a superior flavour compared to pre-grated varieties, which tend to lose their delicate aroma and flavour over time. Pre-grated Parmesan is often more expensive and may not offer the same flavour impact. However, if convenience is a priority, shelf-stable grated Parmesan can be a suitable option, and choosing the cheapest option is generally recommended in this case.
For those seeking the highest quality Parmesan, authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano or grana padano are excellent choices, albeit more expensive. To make the most of your budget, consider buying a small piece from a specialty store or deli, storing it carefully, and using it sparingly. When shopping for Parmesan, look for cheese wrapped in paper rather than cling wrap, as this is a sign of authenticity. Additionally, ask the cheesemonger for guidance to ensure you are getting genuine Parmesan.
In summary, Parmesan is a versatile cheese that is particularly well-suited for sprinkling on salads and pasta. Its sharp flavour and granular texture elevate these dishes, making it a popular choice for food enthusiasts. Whether you opt for freshly grated Parmesan or choose from the array of pre-grated options available, this cheese adds a delightful touch to your culinary creations.
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Frequently asked questions
Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese made from cow's milk. It has a sharp, nutty flavour and a granular texture.
Grated Parmesan cheese is Parmesan cheese that has been grated. It is commonly used as a topping for pasta, salads and snacks.
Parmigiano-Reggiano is a specific type of Parmesan cheese that is produced in Italy in the regions of Bologna, Reggio Emilia, Mantua, Modena, and Parma. It is considered a higher quality cheese than other types of Parmesan due to its complex flavour and granular texture, which is a result of its long aging process.
The best type of grated Parmesan cheese to buy depends on your personal preferences and budget. If you are looking for convenience, pre-grated Parmesan cheese is available at most grocery stores. However, if you want a more authentic and flavourful option, it is recommended to buy a block of Parmesan cheese and grate it yourself.
