Randy Chandler
Parmesan cheese is a hard, dry cheese that is often grated or shredded and used in a variety of dishes. When cooking with Parmesan cheese, it is generally recommended to measure the cheese by weight rather than volume, as volume measurements can be inaccurate due to the varying sizes of cheese shavings or grates. For example, 50 grams of shredded Parmesan cheese contains 208 calories and has a macronutrient breakdown of 3% carbs, 60% fat, and 37% protein.
50 grams of Parmesan Cheese Characteristics
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories | 208 |
| Macronutrient breakdown | 3% carbs, 60% fat, 37% protein |
| Food group | Dairy, Egg Products |
| Food type | Vegetarian |
| Texture | Dry grated, shredded |
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What You'll Learn
Calories and macronutrients
Fifty grams of parmesan cheese contains 208 calories. The macronutrient composition of parmesan cheese is 3% carbohydrates, 60% fat, and 37% protein. This percentage distribution expresses the relative amounts of each macronutrient in the cheese.
Parmesan cheese is a good source of protein and fat, which are essential macronutrients. Protein is necessary for the growth and repair of body tissues, while dietary fat provides a concentrated source of energy and supports the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
The high fat content in parmesan cheese contributes significantly to its calorie density. With 60% of its calories coming from fat, parmesan cheese is considered a high-fat food. However, it's important to note that not all fats are equal, and the specific types of fatty acids present in a food can impact its nutritional profile.
While parmesan cheese offers a substantial amount of protein and fat, it is relatively low in carbohydrates, with only 3% of its macronutrient composition coming from this source. Carbohydrates are the body's primary source of energy, but their presence in parmesan cheese is minimal. This characteristic may be favourable to individuals following low-carbohydrate diets or those monitoring their carbohydrate intake for specific health or fitness goals.
When considering the addition of parmesan cheese to a recipe or meal, it is essential to measure it by weight rather than volume. The volume of grated parmesan cheese can vary significantly depending on the size of the shavings or grates. Measuring by weight ensures accuracy and consistency in the final dish, as well as providing precise nutritional information for those tracking their calorie and macronutrient intake.
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Conversion to cups
When converting 50 grams of Parmesan cheese to cups, it's important to consider the type of grate you're using. Different grating tools will produce varying sizes of cheese shreds, which will impact the final volume measurement. For example, a Microplane grater will give you very fine cheese shavings that are light and fluffy, resulting in a higher volume-to-weight ratio. On the other hand, a box grater will produce larger shreds or chunks, leading to a denser measurement by volume.
Generally, when measuring cheese by weight, coarsely grated cheese is denser than finely grated cheese. In simple terms, 1 cup of coarsely grated cheese will contain less cheese than 1 cup of finely grated cheese. This means that the finer the grate, the more volume you will get from the same weight of Parmesan cheese.
While there is no exact conversion formula for converting 50 grams of Parmesan cheese to cups due to the variability of grate sizes, we can estimate the range. Based on the density of Parmesan cheese and the typical volume measurements of grated cheese, 50 grams of finely grated Parmesan cheese would roughly translate to around 1/3 to 1/2 cup. However, this range may vary depending on the specific grating tool and technique used.
It's worth noting that when cooking with grated Parmesan, the cheese usually melts into the dish, reducing the volume advantage gained from finer shavings. As a result, some chefs prefer to rely on weight measurements rather than volume for accuracy. Nonetheless, if a recipe calls for grated Parmesan in cups, using a Microplane grater will likely yield the desired volume with a smaller amount of cheese.
In conclusion, converting 50 grams of Parmesan cheese to cups depends on the grating tool and technique used. The range of 1/3 to 1/2 cup is a reasonable estimate for finely grated Parmesan, but the specific volume can vary. For cooking purposes, it's generally advisable to measure by weight, but using your judgment and taste preferences can also guide the amount of Parmesan cheese added to a recipe.
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Grating methods
Grating Parmesan cheese can be done in a variety of ways, each yielding a different texture suitable for different applications. Here are some common grating methods:
Microplane
A microplane is a popular choice for grating Parmesan cheese. It creates wispy little curls or slivers and shards of cheese that are ideal for serving on top of dishes or in salads. The Microplane is a razor-toothed tool that can easily grate hard cheeses, nutmeg, chocolate, and lemon zest. It is a preferred method for those who want a small amount of cheese for topping.
Box Grater
A traditional box grater with fine, raspy teeth can be used to create a powdery, finely grated cheese. This method requires more effort and can be tedious, but some enthusiasts insist that the finely grated cheese is superior for pasta dishes. It is important to note that grating cheese with a box grater can be time-consuming and may result in some cheese sticking to the grater.
Food Processor
Using a food processor is a time-saving alternative to manual grating. Simply cut the Parmesan into small pieces and pulse them in the food processor's bowl. This method yields a nubby, pebbly, ground-up consistency similar to pre-grated Parmesan. While some people prefer the uniform texture for bread crumb coatings, dressings, and toppings, others find the texture of food-processed Parmesan less desirable.
Y-Peeler
For a coarser grate, a Y-peeler can be used to shred Parmesan off the block. The shreds can be used as-is or crumbled by hand, making them suitable for salads.
Blender
If a food processor is not available, a blender can be used as an alternative to grate Parmesan cheese into small pieces.
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When to add to recipes
Parmesan cheese is a beloved ingredient in many recipes, adding a savoury touch and a beautiful depth of flavour. When adding 50 grams of this Italian cheese to your dishes, timing is key. Here are some tips on when to incorporate Parmesan into your recipes:
Pasta Dishes
Parmesan cheese is a classic topping for pasta, and recipes like Fettuccine Alfredo rely solely on its sharp, rich flavour. For a creamy dish like Fettuccine Alfredo, add grated Parmesan towards the end of cooking, stirring it into the sauce to melt and blend seamlessly. If you're making a pasta bake, like a chicken mushroom pie, you can sprinkle Parmesan on top before baking to create a golden, cheesy crust.
Salads and Appetizers
A little Parmesan goes a long way in enhancing salads and appetisers. Shaved or grated Parmesan can be added just before serving to provide a salty, nutty flavour and a delightful textural contrast. For instance, a zucchini loaf gets a mild Parmesan boost, complementing the green zucchini slices beautifully.
Breads and Crackers
When making bread or crackers, grated or shaved Parmesan can be kneaded into the dough or sprinkled on top before baking. This adds a savoury note and a rustic, textured look, as seen in recipes like Chris Wilson's zucchini loaf.
Meat Dishes
Parmesan is a versatile ingredient that pairs well with meat. For dishes like chicken wings, a coating of garlic powder, Parmesan, and herbs creates a flavourful crust when fried. Alternatively, you can finish a dish with a sprinkle of Parmesan, as seen in recipes like Creamy Garlic Chicken or Beef Stroganoff Cottage Pie.
Side Dishes
Mashed potatoes take on a new level of comfort when mixed with cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan. The cheese adds a rich, savoury dimension to the creamy texture. You can also sprinkle Parmesan on roasted vegetables or potatoes before serving to add a crunchy, flavourful topping.
Storing and Grating Tips
To ensure your Parmesan is always ready for your recipes, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for 3-6 months. When it's time to cook, you can grate Parmesan directly onto your dishes using a Microplane, adding a fine, elegant touch to your meals.
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Food groups
Parmesan cheese is a dairy product, and 50 grams of it contains 208 calories. The macronutrient breakdown is 3% carbohydrates, 60% fat, and 37% protein. This food group is an important source of calcium, which is essential for bone health. Dairy products are also a good source of protein, which is necessary for muscle growth and repair.
When cooking with Parmesan cheese, it is important to use weight measurements rather than volume for accuracy. This is because the volume of cheese can change dramatically depending on the size of the grater used and how fluffy the cheese shavings are. Using a microplane grater, for example, will result in high-volume, low-density shavings. Therefore, it is recommended to use weight measurements when following a recipe that calls for grated Parmesan cheese.
However, some recipes that use Parmesan cheese, such as carbonara, may be more forgiving when it comes to the amount of cheese used. As long as there is enough liquid to hydrate the other ingredients, adding too much or too little cheese is unlikely to negatively affect the recipe. In these cases, it is more important to add cheese to taste, especially when it is folded in at the end of the cooking process.
When buying Parmesan cheese, it is worth noting that it can be purchased pre-grated from Italian delis or grocery stores. Pre-grated cheese can be convenient and help with portion control, as you can use the container to gauge how much cheese you are adding to your recipes.
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Frequently asked questions
50 grams of Parmesan cheese contains 208 calories.
The macronutrient breakdown is 3% carbs, 60% fat, and 37% protein.
The volume of grated Parmesan cheese can vary depending on the size of the grater used and the fineness of the shavings. It is generally recommended to measure Parmesan cheese by weight rather than volume for accuracy.
Yes, Parmesan cheese is a dairy product and is suitable for vegetarians.
