Patrick Oconnell
Parmesan cheese is a popular ingredient in many recipes, and it is often used as a topping for pasta, risotto, or minestrone. While pre-grated Parmesan cheese is available in stores, many people prefer to grate their own at home. This is because freshly grated Parmesan has a superior taste and texture, and it is also more economical. There are several tools that can be used to grate Parmesan cheese, including a Microplane, a box grater, a food processor, or a blender. Each of these tools has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best tool for the job may vary depending on the desired texture and quantity of grated cheese.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Grating tools | Microplane, box grater, food processor, blender |
| Pre-grated cheese | More expensive, contains additives, doesn't melt as well |
| Grating your own cheese | Cheaper, no additives, melts better |
| Storing grated cheese | Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to seven days |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Using a Microplane
Grating Parmesan cheese with a Microplane is a popular option. Microplanes are known for their sharp, photochemically etched teeth that can easily grate hard cheeses, nutmeg, chocolate, and lemon zest into wispy curls or fine powder.
To use a Microplane for grating Parmesan cheese, start by cutting the cheese into rough cubes of about 1/2 to 1-inch square. Then, take your Microplane and gently grate the cheese cubes. The Microplane will produce fluffy, voluminous cheese curls that appear nearly double in volume compared to box-grated cheese.
Microplanes are also convenient because they are generally dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze. They are a good option for grating Parmesan cheese when you don't want to deal with the hassle of a box grater or the time-consuming process of a food processor.
However, it's worth noting that Microplanes may not produce the finest powder desired for certain recipes. In those cases, a box grater or a food processor might be more suitable. Nonetheless, for those seeking convenience, ease of use, and a fluffy grated cheese texture, a Microplane is an excellent choice.
Creative Ways to Use Leftover Vegan Cheese Sauce
You may want to see also
Using a box grater
Grating Parmesan cheese with a box grater is a straightforward process. First, you will need to cut the cheese into cubes. The size of these cubes will depend on the capacity of your food processor. For most models, cubes of around 1/2 to 1 inch square should be suitable.
Once you have prepared your cheese cubes, place them into the bowl of your food processor. Ensure that the food processor is fitted with the regular blade. Then, turn on the food processor and let it run until the cheese is grated to your desired consistency. This may take some time, depending on the hardness of the cheese. Remember to stop and check the consistency periodically. If you are aiming for a very fine powder, you may need to use a box grater.
When using a box grater, you will need to apply a little more manual effort. First, cut the Parmesan cheese into larger strips that can be easily handled. Then, take the box grater and hold it steady on your work surface with one hand. With your other hand, rub the cheese against the grater, applying firm but controlled pressure. You will need to experiment with the angle and speed of your grating action to achieve the desired consistency.
Some people prefer using a box grater for Parmesan cheese, as it can produce a finer, powdery texture compared to other grating methods. This powdery texture is considered superior by some pasta enthusiasts, as it can have a more pronounced impact on the final dish. However, using a box grater does require more physical effort and can be less convenient than using a food processor or other grating tools. Ultimately, the choice of grating method depends on your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your recipe.
Cheese Choice for Opa: Halloumi, the Perfect Fry
You may want to see also
Using a food processor
Grating Parmesan cheese at home is a great way to ensure freshness and save some money. While there are several ways to grate Parmesan cheese, using a food processor is one of the most efficient methods.
To grate Parmesan cheese using a food processor, start by cutting the cheese into rough cubes, about 1/2 to 1 inch square. It is recommended to cut the cheese into smaller chunks to make it easier for the processor to break them down. Remove any rind from the cheese using a large, sharp knife. Leaving a thin layer of cheese attached to the rind is fine and can add flavour to your dish.
Place the cheese cubes into a sturdy food processor fitted with the regular blade. Pulse the food processor in short, 3-second increments. Initially, the processor will be loud, but as the cheese breaks down, it will get quieter. Continue processing the cheese, gradually increasing the intervals, until the desired texture is achieved. This can take around a minute or two, depending on the hardness of the cheese. For a finer powder-like texture, you can use a box grater.
Once the cheese is grated, you can use it immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to seven days. Alternatively, you can freeze the grated cheese in mason jars or Ziploc freezer bags for future use.
Fontina Cheese: Uses and Applications
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Buying pre-grated Parmesan
Pre-grated Parmesan is a convenient option for those who use a lot of grated Parmesan in their cooking. It saves time and effort, as you don't need to grate the cheese yourself or clean the grater afterward. It can also be easier to store and sprinkle on your dishes as desired. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind when buying pre-grated Parmesan:
Firstly, commercially packaged pre-grated Parmesan often contains stabilizers, anti-caking agents, and fillers that are not present in blocks of Parmesan cheese. These additives can affect the melting and clumping behaviour of the cheese and may not be desirable for some consumers. It is recommended to buy store-grated aged Parmesan, where a chunk of aged Parmesan cheese is simply grated and packaged, without any additional ingredients.
Secondly, pre-grated Parmesan may be more expensive than buying a block of Parmesan cheese and grating it yourself. Blocks of Parmesan can often provide a more cost-effective option, especially if you are particular about the quality and flavour of your cheese. However, some people may find that they use more cheese when it is pre-grated, as it is easier to sprinkle a generous amount onto dishes.
Additionally, it is worth noting that pre-grated Parmesan may have a shorter shelf life than a block of Parmesan. While Parmesan cheese generally has a long shelf life, pre-grated cheese can start to lose its flavour or go stale faster than a block, especially if not stored properly.
Lastly, some people prefer the taste and texture of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over pre-grated options. Freshly grated Parmesan may have a stronger flavour impact on dishes, and some enthusiasts believe it is superior for certain recipes, such as pasta.
In conclusion, while buying pre-grated Parmesan can be a convenient option, it is important to consider the potential presence of additives, the cost, shelf life, and flavour when making your decision. For those who prioritise convenience and enjoy the flavour of pre-grated Parmesan, it can be a worthwhile choice. However, for those who prefer the taste and texture of freshly grated Parmesan or who wish to avoid additional ingredients, grating your own Parmesan may be the better option.
Pampered Chef Cheese Slicer: Mastering the Art of Thin Slices
You may want to see also
Storing grated Parmesan
Grated Parmesan cheese is notoriously difficult to store due to its fats, which cause the cheese to clump together. This can ruin the flavour of the cheese and make it difficult to separate and measure. To prevent this, it is critical to deprive grated Parmesan of moisture.
The simplest way to do this is to store grated Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This ensures that moisture cannot get to the cheese and reduces the likelihood of the cheese clumping together and bacteria growing. Cool temperatures make it harder for food to absorb moisture, so storing grated Parmesan in the fridge is the best way to prevent clumping.
To further reduce the chance of clumping, it is recommended that you only grate as much Parmesan as you will use within two weeks. If you are unable to use the cheese within this time frame, you can extend its shelf life by freezing it in an airtight container. Frozen grated Parmesan can last for up to six months.
Another way to prevent clumping is to add a small amount of cornstarch, flour, or arrowroot powder to your grated Parmesan. These ingredients absorb moisture without affecting the flavour or quality of the cheese.
Comte Cheese: A Versatile Ingredient for Your Kitchen
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
You can grate parmesan cheese using a Microplane, box grater, food processor, or blender.
Grating your own parmesan cheese is generally cheaper than buying pre-grated cheese.
Using a food processor or blender to grate parmesan cheese is a fast and easy method.
You can store grated parmesan cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to seven days or in the freezer for later use.
Grating your own parmesan cheese ensures freshness and avoids the addition of preservatives and anti-caking agents found in some pre-grated cheeses, which can affect their melting properties.
