Andy Montoya
Grated Parmesan cheese is a popular dairy product with a strong, savory flavor and a distinct aroma. It is made from finely ground, aged Parmesan cheese, a hard, granular Italian cheese produced from cow's milk. Grated Parmesan is commonly used as a topping or garnish on dishes such as pasta, salads, soups, casseroles, and pizzas. It can also be mixed into dishes to add a creamy texture and savory flavor. While pre-grated Parmesan cheese, such as Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese, is convenient and affordable, some people prefer to grate their own Parmesan cheese from a wedge to achieve a fresher taste.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Texture | Finely ground, powdery |
| Type of Cheese | Italian hard, granular cheese |
| Source | Cow's milk |
| Flavor | Strong, nutty, savory |
| Aroma | Distinct |
| Use | Key ingredient or garnish |
| Common Use Cases | Pasta dishes, salads, soups, casseroles, pizzas, meat, fish |
| Quantity | A little goes a long way |
| Temperature | Room temperature |
| Storage | Fridge, airtight container, freezer |
| Shelf Life | 7-9 months (unopened) |
| Signals of Spoilage | Off smell, change in color, clumpy or slimy texture, mold |
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What You'll Learn
Kraft grated parmesan cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese is a popular dairy product made from finely ground, aged Parmesan cheese. It is a hard, granular cheese produced from cow's milk and has a strong, savoury flavour and a distinct aroma. It can be used as a key ingredient or garnish in numerous dishes, including pasta, salads, soups, casseroles, and pizzas.
However, there is some debate about the authenticity of Kraft's grated Parmesan cheese. In Europe, regulations require that Parmesan cheese be produced in Parma or Reggio Emilia to be labelled as such, and Kraft was legally forced to stop selling its cheese labelled as Parmesan on that continent. While it is still available in the US, some customers have expressed preference for authentic Parmigiano Reggiano or other higher-quality alternatives, as the flavour and texture of Kraft's product may differ significantly from traditional Parmesan cheese.
When using grated Parmesan cheese, it is important to measure the quantity properly according to the recipe, as a little goes a long way due to its strong flavour. It is recommended to use it at room temperature to relish its flavours and maintain freshness. Grated Parmesan can be used not just as a garnish but also mixed into dishes to add a creamy, savoury consistency.
In terms of storage, it is advisable to keep grated Parmesan cheese in an airtight container in the fridge to preserve its original flavour and prevent moisture from affecting the cheese. For long-term storage, consider freezing it in small portions and removing only as much cheese as needed to avoid defrosting and refreezing.
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Freshly grated parmesan cheese
Parmesan cheese is a hard, granular Italian cheese produced from cow's milk. It has a strong, savory flavour and a distinct aroma. When grated, it becomes a fine powder that can be used as a garnish or ingredient in various dishes. The cheese is known as the "King of Italian Cheeses" and is a popular dairy product.
To ensure the freshness of grated parmesan cheese, it should be stored properly. This includes storing it in an airtight container in the fridge to prevent moisture from affecting the cheese. For long-term storage, grated parmesan can be frozen, either in a freezer bag or in small portions. However, it is recommended to grate the cheese fresh, as freezing can cause a loss of delicate flavour.
When grating parmesan cheese, it is essential to use the right tool, as the hard texture of the cheese can challenge even the smoothest grater. A fine grater is recommended to achieve the desired consistency. While pre-grated parmesan cheese may be more convenient, freshly grated parmesan is worth the effort for those seeking an authentic, flavourful experience.
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Authentic parmesan cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese is a popular dairy product made from finely ground, aged Parmesan cheese. Parmesan is an Italian hard, granular cheese produced from cow's milk. Authentic Parmesan cheese, or Parmigiano Reggiano, is considered the "king of cheeses" and is renowned for its rich and savory taste. The cheese originates from the region of Emilia, where farmers have bred the finest cattle and fed them the best fodder to produce high-quality milk.
When purchasing authentic Parmesan cheese, it is important to look for the designation of Parmigiano Reggiano DOP or Grana Padano PDO, which indicates protected status based on the region of origin. This type of Parmesan cheese is more expensive than its imitations, but the unique flavour and texture make it worth the extra cost. Authentic Parmesan has a strong, savoury flavour and a distinct aroma that can enhance numerous dishes. It can be used as a garnish or mixed into dishes to add a creamy, savoury consistency.
One of the challenges of using authentic Parmesan cheese is grating it. The cheese can become extremely hard, making it difficult to grate, especially if it has been frozen or exposed to air. To avoid this issue, some people choose to buy pre-grated Parmesan cheese, but it is important to note that freshly grated Parmesan has a more delicate flavour. It is recommended to buy a wedge of Parmigiano-Reggiano and grate it with a fine grater as needed, storing any leftover grated cheese in the freezer to maintain freshness.
Another tip for getting the most out of authentic Parmesan cheese is to utilise the rind. The rind, or outer layer, of Parmesan cheese is full of flavour and can be added to soups or stews to enhance their taste. It is important to remove the rind before serving and to store it separately from the grated cheese to prevent cross-contamination. Additionally, proper storage of grated Parmesan cheese is crucial to extending its shelf life. It should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer to preserve its original flavour and texture.
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How to store grated parmesan cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese made from cow's milk, with a distinctive, slightly nutty flavour. It is a popular addition to pasta sauces, casseroles, and soup dishes. When storing grated Parmesan cheese, it is important to prevent clumping and spoilage. Here are some tips to achieve that:
Use an Airtight Container
The simplest way to store grated Parmesan cheese is to use an airtight container. This prevents moisture from reaching the cheese, reducing the likelihood of clumping and flavour alteration. Cool temperatures also help to prevent moisture absorption, so the airtight container should be placed in the refrigerator.
Control the Temperature
To prevent clumping and bacterial growth, maintain a temperature below 5°C in your refrigerator. Kraft recommends storing grated Parmesan cheese at 40°F, which is the normal refrigerator temperature. At room temperature, the cheese is more prone to spoilage, similar to how room-temperature milk is less desirable.
Wrap the Cheese
Wrapping the cheese before placing it in the refrigerator can help prevent spoilage and condensation. You can use parchment paper, cheesecloth, cheese paper, wax paper, or plastic wrap. Aluminium foil can also be used, but be careful not to poke holes in it. The wrapped cheese can then be placed in a crisper drawer or on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator.
Use Cornstarch
To prevent clumping, you can add a small amount of cornstarch to your grated Parmesan cheese. This will absorb any excess moisture without affecting the flavour or quality of the cheese.
Freeze the Cheese
If you have a large amount of grated Parmesan cheese, consider freezing it. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer. Frozen shredded Parmesan cheese can last for three to six months. When using frozen cheese, simply shake it to break up any clumps before adding it to your dish.
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Grated parmesan cheese uses
Grated parmesan cheese is a versatile ingredient that can elevate a variety of dishes. Here are some common uses for grated parmesan cheese:
Pasta, Pizza, and Casseroles
One of the most popular uses of grated parmesan cheese is as a topping for pasta, pizza, and casseroles. The cheese adds a rich, nutty flavour and a creamy texture to these dishes. It can also be mixed into pasta dishes to create a savoury, consistent flavour throughout.
Salads
Grated parmesan cheese can add a savoury boost to salads. It can be sprinkled on top of salads or mixed into salad dressings for added flavour and texture. Its distinct aroma and strong, savoury taste can enhance the overall profile of a salad.
Soups and Stews
Grated parmesan cheese can be used to add depth of flavour to soups and stews. The cheese can be mixed into the soup or sprinkled on top as a garnish. Additionally, the rind or outer layer of parmesan cheese can be added to soups and stews during the simmering process to impart an extra layer of flavour. Just remember to remove the rind before serving.
Meat and Fish Crust
Grated parmesan cheese can be combined with breadcrumbs to create a delicious crust for meat and fish. This not only adds a savoury flavour but also provides a crispy texture, enhancing the overall taste and presentation of the dish.
Grilled Vegetables
Sprinkling grated parmesan cheese over grilled vegetables adds a savoury and nutty flavour dimension. It pairs well with vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers.
When using grated parmesan cheese, it is important to measure the quantity properly and use it at room temperature to ensure the best flavour. Additionally, storing grated parmesan cheese in the fridge or freezer and using airtight containers can help extend its shelf life and preserve its original flavour.
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Frequently asked questions
Grated parmesan cheese is a popular dairy product made from finely ground, aged parmesan cheese. It is a hard, granular cheese produced from cow's milk and has a strong, savory flavor and a distinct aroma.
Grated parmesan cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be used as a garnish or mixed into dishes to add a creamy, savory consistency. It works well as a topping for pasta, salads, soups, casseroles, and pizzas. It can also be combined with breadcrumbs to create a flavorful crust for meat and fish.
Kraft grated parmesan cheese is a convenient, store-bought option that is quick and easy to use. While it is a popular choice for many, some people prefer to grate their own parmesan cheese from a block of authentic parmesan cheese, as it is believed to have a superior flavor and quality.
To extend the shelf life of grated parmesan cheese, it is recommended to store it in an airtight container in the fridge. For long-term storage, it can be frozen, either in a freezer-safe bag or divided into small portions. It is important to use a clean utensil to handle the cheese to avoid cross-contamination.
