The Perfect Cheese Pairing For Parma Ham

Parma ham is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from pizzas to sandwiches. It pairs well with several types of cheese, including fresh, delicate cheeses such as Robiola, and more savoury options like Provolone and Montasio. For those who enjoy a stronger flavour, Parma ham also goes well with pungent blue cheeses such as Gorgonzola. When it comes to creating a well-rounded meal, Parma ham can be served with sweet fruits like melon, figs, kiwi, apples or pears, as well as neutral or sugary vegetables such as lettuce, courgettes, potatoes and carrots.

Parmigiano Reggiano, mozzarella, and Gorgonzola

Parmigiano Reggiano

Parmigiano Reggiano, or Parmesan, is a hard, nutty, and rich Italian cheese that pairs well with the soft, milky fat of Parma ham. A 24-month-old Parmigiano Reggiano is a good choice to accompany the ham, as the cheese will have a strong flavour without being too pungent.

Mozzarella

Mozzarella is a soft, mild cheese that can be used to make delicious, easy, no-cook party bites when paired with Parma ham. To make these bites, simply lay a slice of Parma ham on a board, add a few rocket leaves, a ball of mozzarella, and a sun-blush tomato. Season with salt and pepper, then roll into a neat wrap. These bites can be served immediately or chilled for a few hours before serving.

Gorgonzola

Gorgonzola is a pungent blue cheese that also goes well with Parma ham. It can be used in a variety of recipes, such as Gorgonzola PDO Tagliatelle with Parma Ham, or simply served on a cheese and charcuterie board. When creating a cheese board, it is a good idea to include some extras like crackers, grapes, or fresh figs to add some contrast and bring everything together.

Goat's cheese and honey ciabatta

Goats Cheese and Honey Ciabatta with Parma Ham

Ingredients

• Ciabatta
• Soft, spreadable goat's cheese
• Honey
• Parma ham
• Basil leaves

Method

• Preheat your grill to medium-hot.
• Cut each piece of ciabatta in two, then arrange on a grill pan, with the cut sides facing upwards. Toast the ciabatta lightly.
• Spread the goat's cheese over the toasted ciabatta and drizzle each piece with 1 teaspoon of honey.
• Return the ciabatta to the grill and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until bubbling and golden.
• Top with the slices of Parma ham and drizzle with the remaining honey.
• Garnish with a few basil leaves and serve.

Tips

• If you can't get hold of ciabatta, you can use farmhouse-style bread instead.
• Make sure you choose a soft, spreadable goat's cheese, rather than one with a rind.

Black Bomber cheese sticks

Ingredients

• 200g Black Bomber Cheese
• 8 slices of Parma Ham
• Pesto
• Rocket leaves
• Black pepper

Method

• Cut the 200g of Black Bomber cheese into 8 sticks.
• Spread a little pesto on each cheese stick.
• Place each cheese stick on a slice of Parma ham with a few rocket leaves on top.
• Season with black pepper.
• Roll each one up.
• Leave whole to serve or cut in half for smaller appetisers.

Tips

• Allow the cheese to reach room temperature before cutting into it. This softens the wax slightly and the cheese will taste better when it's not fridge-cold.
• For a sharper flavour, use a very sharp knife to cut the cheese.
• Black Bomber cheese sticks wrapped in Parma ham can be served as part of a charcuterie board.
• Other cheeses that go well with Parma ham include Parmigiano Reggiano, mozzarella, provolone, and blue cheese such as Gorgonzola.
• To make a tasty salad to accompany the cheese sticks, combine endive, avocado, pumpkin seeds, and rocket with Parma ham, and season with extra virgin olive oil.

Robiola and other fresh, delicate cheeses

Robiola is a fresh, delicate cheese that pairs well with Parma Ham. It is a good option for those who prefer their cheese to be fresh and mild rather than savoury.

Robiola is a soft, creamy cheese with a mild, slightly tangy flavour. It is made from a mixture of cow's, sheep's, and goat's milk, and it has a soft, spreadable texture. When paired with the intense flavour of Parma Ham, Robiola provides a refreshing contrast that enhances the overall taste experience. The saltiness of the ham complements the creaminess of the cheese, creating a delightful combination.

In addition to Robiola, other fresh and delicate cheeses can also be considered when pairing with Parma Ham. These cheeses typically have mild flavours and soft textures, ensuring they do not overpower the delicate taste of the ham. Some examples of other fresh, delicate cheeses that go well with Parma Ham include:

• Mozzarella: This classic Italian cheese is known for its soft, stretchy texture and mild, creamy flavour. When paired with Parma Ham, mozzarella provides a delightful contrast, especially when served with fresh rocket, extra virgin olive oil, and balsamic vinegar.
• Goat's Cheese: Goat's cheese, with its tangy and creamy characteristics, can also be a wonderful companion to Parma Ham. Its natural acidity and creamy texture create an excellent balance with the rich, salty ham.
• Fresh, Delicate Cheeses from Local Producers: Exploring local cheese varieties can lead to some delightful discoveries. Look for cheeses made from fresh, local milk with mild flavours and creamy textures to complement the Parma Ham.

When creating a charcuterie board or a savoury dish featuring Parma Ham and fresh, delicate cheeses, consider adding some accompanying items to enhance the overall flavour profile. Fresh fruits such as melon, figs, kiwi, apples, or pears can provide a sweet contrast to the salty ham and mild cheese. Additionally, extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and fresh herbs like basil can add depth and complexity to the pairing.

Provolone or Montasio

When it comes to cheese, Parma Ham is incredibly versatile. While some prefer to pair it with a fresh, delicate cheese like robiola, others may opt for more savoury options like Provolone or Montasio.

Provolone is a cheese that packs a punch. It has a sharp, salty flavour that intensifies as it ages. Its firm texture makes it ideal for grating or slicing, adding a savoury kick to dishes. When paired with the delicate sweetness of Parma Ham, Provolone brings a bold contrast that enhances the overall flavour profile.

Montasio, on the other hand, offers a more nuanced taste experience. This cheese has a buttery, nutty flavour with a hint of sweetness. Its texture can range from semi-soft to hard, depending on its age. Younger Montasio has a more mellow flavour, while aged Montasio boasts a more intense, tangy taste. When paired with Parma Ham, Montasio provides a delightful balance of savoury and sweet, with its nutty notes complementing the ham's subtle sweetness.

Both Provolone and Montasio cheeses can elevate the flavour of Parma Ham in their own unique ways. For those who enjoy a more pronounced savoury element, Provolone is an excellent choice. If a subtler, more nuanced flavour is preferred, Montasio is the perfect option.

When creating a charcuterie board, consider including both Provolone and Montasio cheeses. This will provide a range of flavours and textures for your guests to explore and discover their preferred combinations.

Frequently asked questions