Randy Chandler
Parmesan cheese is a staple in many kitchens, adding a salty, savoury kick to pasta, salads, and snacks. But which brand of parmesan cheese is the best? There are many options available, from the well-known Kraft to the lesser-known Italian and Australian imports. Some prefer the pre-grated, canned variety, while others opt for a block or wedge to grate at home. While some sources claim that imported Parmigiano-Reggiano is the best option, others prefer domestic brands like BelGioioso, Sartori, or even Costco's Reggiano. With so many choices, it can be challenging to decide which parmesan cheese to buy.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Best shredded parmesan cheese | BelGioioso, Buitoni |
| Best parmesan cheese for snacking | Aged gouda, comte |
| Authentic parmesan | Parmigiano-Reggiano, Grana Padano |
| Best parmesan cheese for a cheese board | Private Selection |
| Best parmesan cheese for caesar salad | Buitoni |
| Best parmesan cheese for pasta | 30-Month Zanetti Parmigiano Reggiano, 40-Month Parmigiano Reggiano |
| Best value parmesan cheese | Trader Joe's |
| Best parmesan cheese brand | Sartori |
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What You'll Learn
Imported Parmigiano-Reggiano is best
If you're looking for the best Parmesan cheese, look no further than imported Parmigiano-Reggiano. This cheese is the real deal, and it's worth seeking out for its superior taste and texture.
Parmigiano-Reggiano is a type of cheese that is exclusively produced in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. It is highly revered and experts meticulously check each wheel, justifying its higher price point. When compared to other domestic cheeses in a blind taste test, imported Parmigiano-Reggiano was the clear winner, with tasters commenting on its good flavour depth and nutty and sweet notes. It also offers great value for money, often priced similarly or only slightly higher than its inferior competitors.
While there are many varieties of domestic Parmesan cheeses available, none come close to replicating the texture and flavour of Parmigiano-Reggiano. By law, Parmigiano-Reggiano must be aged for a minimum of 12 months, giving it a depth of flavour that other cheeses lack.
If you're looking for a true Italian Parmesan cheese, imported Parmigiano-Reggiano is the best option. It is an authentic product with a protected designation of origin (DOP), ensuring it meets specific standards and comes from a designated region of Italy.
When it comes to purchasing Parmesan cheese, don't settle for less. Imported Parmigiano-Reggiano is the clear winner in terms of taste, texture, and value, making it the best choice for those seeking a superior cheese experience.
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Grana Padano is a good alternative
Grana Padano is a semi-fat hard cheese that is cooked and ripened slowly for at least nine months. It is similar to Parmesan but with less strict regulations governing its production. The cheese gets its name from its grainy texture, with "grana" meaning "grain" in Italian. The production process involves milling the curd down to the size of a grain of rice, resulting in a hard, dry cheese.
One of the key differences between Grana Padano and Parmesan is the milk used in their production. Grana Padano is made with unpasteurized, partially skimmed cows' milk, while Parmesan can be made with various types of milk, including pasteurized milk, which some critics believe results in a less flavorful cheese. The cows that produce the milk for Grana Padano are fed high-quality silage, and their milk is skimmed to remove the surface layer of cream before being mixed with fresh milk.
Grana Padano is sold in three different ripening stages, each with its own distinct texture and flavour profile:
- Between 9 and 16 months: Softer, pale yellow, milky, and delicate flavour.
- Over 16 months: Crumbly, with a crystalline structure and a creamier flavour with notes of hay.
- Over 20 months (Riserva Grana Padano): Grainy, crumbly, and full-flavoured.
Grana Padano is a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) cheese, meaning it must be made in a specific place and follow certain rules to bear its name. It is produced in the Po River Valley, and about 24% of Italy's milk production is used to make it. The cheese has a long history, dating back almost 1,000 years to the Cistercian monks who first developed it in the 12th century.
In summary, Grana Padano is a worthy alternative to Parmesan, offering a slightly different taste and texture at various ripening stages. It is a highly regarded Italian cheese with a rich history and strict production specifications, making it a good choice for those seeking an authentic and flavourful cheese.
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BelGioioso for thin, dainty shreds
If you're a fan of thin, dainty shreds of parmesan, then BelGioioso is the brand for you. The shreds are so fine that they will melt the second they touch your hot bowl of sauced pasta. The cheese has a salty and brisk taste with a hint of basement-y funk.
BelGioioso's parmesan has a beautiful complexity to it, with a sweet caramel undertone and a nutty flavor reminiscent of a true Italian parmesan. The brand is also known for its generous portion sizes, offering wedges that are larger than those of its competitors for a similar price.
In addition to its great taste and value, BelGioioso's packaging is also worth noting. The cheese comes in a lightweight plastic container that reduces waste. This makes it a more environmentally friendly option compared to other brands.
While some may prefer their parmesan with thicker shreds, those who appreciate delicate, fine shreds will surely enjoy BelGioioso's offering. The thin shreds not only melt quickly but also provide a pleasant textural experience when sprinkled over your favorite dishes.
So, if you're looking for a parmesan cheese that delivers both on taste and texture, with a touch of elegance, BelGioioso's thin and dainty shreds are an excellent choice.
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Sartori is a flavourful, premium option
While some have found the cheese to be inconsistent, with a few bad batches, Sartori's Parmesan is generally well-loved and considered a premium choice. It is a central part of many people's cooking, with some even keeping several wedges in their fridge at all times. Sartori's Parmesan is a great example of how the right Parmesan can elevate a dish, adding depth and a unique taste.
The cheese is also known for its versatility, working well as a snack or when grated over pasta. It is a true testament to the craft of cheesemaking and a great choice for those seeking a flavourful, high-quality Parmesan. Sartori's Parmesan is a favourite among cheese enthusiasts, and its unique characteristics make it a standout option in the world of Parmesan cheese.
While it may be harder to find in certain areas and comes at a higher price point, Sartori's Parmesan is worth the search and investment for those seeking a superior cheese experience. The cheese showcases the art of cheesemaking, combining tradition and innovation to create a product that is truly exceptional. Sartori's Parmesan is an excellent choice for those who appreciate quality and flavour in their culinary adventures.
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Woolworths for a budget-friendly surprise
If you're looking for a budget-friendly surprise, Woolworths has a great selection of Parmesan cheese that will add a bold, cheesy flavour to your meals without breaking the bank.
For a smaller option that's perfect for those watching their portion sizes or trying Parmesan for the first time, the Essentials Parmesan Cheese is a fantastic choice. This 100g block is a source of calcium and is made without any artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives. It's a versatile option that can be grated or shaved over your favourite dishes.
For those who want a convenient, ready-to-use option, Woolworths offers its own Shredded Parmesan Cheese in a 250g pack. This cheese is a great way to add flavour to your pasta, pizza, or risotto without the hassle of grating. It also comes with the convenience of a reusable storage container, making it easy to store and use again and again.
Another fantastic option for grated Parmesan is the Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese. Available in 125g and 250g packs, this cheese is a delicious addition to all your favourite Italian dishes. Sprinkle it over your pizza or pasta, or melt it into a warm, creamy mash for a bold and tasty twist. The Kraft Parmesan also comes in a handy reusable storage container, making it a convenient and economical choice.
With these options, you can enjoy the rich, bold flavour of Parmesan cheese without spending a fortune. Woolworths has you covered with budget-friendly surprises that will enhance your culinary creations and make your meals even more delightful.
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Frequently asked questions
The best brand of parmesan cheese depends on your preferences and budget. However, some popular brands include:
- Sartori's SarVecchio Parmesan
- BelGioioso
- Parmigiano-Reggiano
- Grana Padano
- Buitoni
If you're looking for a snacking cheese, aged gouda or Comte are great options. That being said, Parmigiano-Reggiano is always a good choice and can be purchased pre-grated or in a block.
If you're looking for a grating cheese, Trader Joe's domestic parm is a good option. It's priced at $6.79/lb and is perfect for grating over pasta.
Private Selection parm is a great option for a cheese board. It has a sharp finish similar to cheddar and can be purchased at Kroger-owned grocery stores.
BelGioioso makes thin, dainty shreds of parmesan cheese that melt instantly. Buitoni also offers shredded parmesan cheese that is highly accessible and packed with flavor.
