Randy Chandler
Microplaned Parmesan cheese is Parmesan cheese that has been grated using a Microplane grater. Microplane graters are designed for both amateur chefs and culinary professionals, and they can grate a wide variety of ingredients, including hard cheeses like Parmesan. Microplaned Parmesan cheese has a fine, crumbled texture that can be achieved by using a Microplane grater or a similar tool. While some people prefer to use a food processor for bulk grating, a Microplane grater is useful for grating small amounts of cheese.
Characteristics and Values of Microplaned Parmesan Cheese
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Texture | Finely crumbled and broken up, not cut |
| Taste | Less concentrated and flavorful |
| Use Case | Small amounts, e.g. for pasta |
| Cheese State | Cheese is frozen or half-frozen before grating |
| Grater Type | Ultra-sharp, stainless steel blades with etched teeth |
| Grater Design | Ergonomic soft-touch handle, non-slip base, comfortable grip |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Microplaned Parmesan cheese texture
Microplaned Parmesan cheese has a light and fluffy texture, resulting in delicate strands or wispy little curls of cheese. The Microplane grater's tiny, sharp teeth cut the cheese with precision, resulting in a fine powder. The texture is described as "grittier" than box-grated cheese by one tester, but most blindfolded testers could not tell the difference.
Microplaned Parmesan is best suited for cool or room-temperature dishes, as when it gets warm, it loses the exact qualities that make it desirable. It is often used for garnishing and adding a burst of flavour to dishes like salads, cooled roasted vegetables, pasta, and toast.
Microplaned Parmesan cheese has a distinct texture that can elevate the appearance and taste of a dish. It is a convenient and efficient way to grate hard cheeses like Parmesan, although some may find it time-consuming and messy, with the tiny holes making it annoying to clean. However, it is generally preferred over box graters due to its ease of use and ability to create a fine, fluffy texture.
The Microplane grater's sharp blades and razor-like teeth make it a versatile tool for zesting and grating various foods, including hard cheeses, garlic, ginger, nutmeg, chocolate, and lemon zest. Its ability to create a fine, fluffy texture makes it a popular choice for garnishing and adding flavour to dishes.
Parmesan Cheese: High in Saturated Fat?
You may want to see also
Microplaned Parmesan cheese flavour
Microplaned Parmesan cheese has a different flavour profile compared to its coarser grated counterpart. The microplaning process creates a fine, fluffy texture that alters the taste experience.
When Parmesan cheese is microplaned, it transforms into a delicate, airy consistency. This fine grating increases the surface area of the cheese, intensifying its savoury and nutty flavours. The increased surface area also enhances the cheese's umami characteristics, lending a deeper, richer taste to dishes.
The microplaning technique can influence the perception of saltiness in Parmesan cheese. The finely grated cheese disperses more evenly and widely throughout a dish, creating a more balanced saltiness that enhances the overall flavour profile. This balanced saltiness is particularly noticeable when microplaned Parmesan is used as a garnish or finishing touch to a variety of recipes.
Additionally, microplaning Parmesan cheese can release and highlight its more subtle aromatic notes. The fine grating process can accentuate the cheese's fragrant, buttery, and subtly tangy aromas, adding complexity to its flavour. This release of aromas contributes to a more nuanced and multi-dimensional taste experience.
However, some people argue that using a microplane for Parmesan cheese can result in a duller, less flavourful experience. They suggest that the microplaned texture requires more cheese to achieve the desired flavour intensity, which may be impractical for some dishes. It is recommended to use a microplane for small amounts of Parmesan, especially when aiming for a delicate finish, such as when garnishing pasta dishes.
Is Parmesan Cheese Halal? What Muslims Need to Know
You may want to see also
Microplaned Parmesan cheese in restaurants
Microplaned Parmesan cheese is a popular choice in restaurants, especially those serving Italian cuisine. A Microplane is a rasp-style grater with tiny, sharp teeth that produce delicate strands of cheese. When used on hard cheeses like Parmesan, it creates a light and feathery texture that can elevate the presentation and taste of a dish.
In restaurants, Microplaned Parmesan cheese can be used in a variety of dishes to add a touch of elegance and flavour. Here are some ways in which restaurants might use Microplaned Parmesan cheese:
Pasta Dishes
While Microplaned Parmesan cheese can be used on pasta, it is important to consider the temperature of the dish. When Microplaned cheese comes into contact with hot pasta, it can melt into a gooey clump, losing its feathery texture. Therefore, it is recommended to use this type of cheese on pasta dishes that are served at room temperature or slightly warm. This includes dishes like pasta salads, pasta primavera, or pasta dishes that are meant to be enjoyed at a leisurely pace, allowing the cheese to gradually melt and blend with the other ingredients.
Salads and Vegetables
Microplaned Parmesan cheese is an excellent addition to salads, providing a delicate and elegant touch. It can be used on classic salad options, such as a Caesar salad, or more creative combinations. The feathery strands of cheese add a subtle cheesy flavour without overwhelming the other ingredients. Similarly, it can be used to enhance the flavour and presentation of roasted or grilled vegetables. Whether they are served as a side dish or incorporated into a main course, a sprinkle of Microplaned Parmesan cheese can elevate the dish.
Soups and Dips
While some might associate Parmesan cheese with pasta, it can also be a wonderful addition to soups and dips. Finely grated Parmesan cheese can be sprinkled over brothy soups, adding depth of flavour and a subtle cheesy note. It can also be used as a garnish on scoopable dips, providing a contrasting texture and savoury touch. The fine texture of Microplaned Parmesan cheese allows it to blend seamlessly into the dish without creating clumps.
Sandwiches and Toasts
In restaurants, Microplaned Parmesan cheese can be used to enhance the flavour and texture of sandwiches and toasts. Whether it's a classic grilled cheese sandwich or a more creative combination, a sprinkle of Microplaned Parmesan can add a savoury touch. It can also be used as a garnish on open-faced toasts, providing a delicate cheesy finish that elevates the dish.
Benefits of Using Microplaned Parmesan Cheese in Restaurants
Using Microplaned Parmesan cheese in restaurants offers several benefits. Firstly, it provides a pure and fresh product, ensuring that customers are getting the best possible flavour. By grating the cheese in-house, restaurants can guarantee the quality and authenticity of the cheese, avoiding the potential addition of cellulose or other additives found in pre-grated options.
Additionally, Microplaned Parmesan cheese allows for better portion control and can enhance the presentation of dishes. The delicate strands of cheese can be evenly distributed, ensuring a consistent flavour throughout the dish. The visual appeal of the feathery cheese strands can also enhance the overall dining experience, making it a favourite among chefs and diners alike.
Parmesan Cheese: Friend or Foe to Inflammation?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Grating Parmesan cheese quickly
One method for grating small amounts of fresh Parmesan is to use a Microplane. This handheld grater is designed for both amateur chefs and culinary professionals, and can be used by simply running the cheese along its surface to create fine shreds. Microplanes are also versatile, as they can be used to grate other ingredients such as citrus zest, garlic, cinnamon, and ginger.
For medium quantities of Parmesan, a box grater can be used. This method is preferred by some over the Microplane for grating Parmesan, as it produces a finer particle size with a bigger blast of cheesy flavour by volume. To avoid a mess or injury when using a box grater, a rimmed baking sheet can be placed underneath.
Finally, for large quantities of grated Parmesan, a food processor is the best option. This method is convenient for grating large amounts of cheese at once, and the grated cheese can then be stored in the freezer in Ziploc bags or jars.
Parmesan Cheese: Tesco's Vegetarian Option
You may want to see also
Microplane grater features
Microplane graters are designed for both amateur chefs and culinary professionals. They are hand-held graters that can be used to grate a variety of ingredients, from zesty citrus fruits to hard cheeses, spices, chocolate, fruits, and certain vegetables. They are also useful for grating ingredients like garlic and ginger into fine pieces that can be added to sauces and dressings.
The Microplane Home Series Wide Fine Grater is a popular option for home chefs. It features razor-sharp stainless steel blades made in the USA and offers a broad grating surface. The updated handle has a soft-touch material with subtle ribbing for a secure grip, while the non-skid base adds stability during use. This grater is also dishwasher-safe, making cleanup easy.
The Microplane Gourmet Series Fine Grater is another option that is designed for both professional and home chefs. It has ultra-sharp surgical-grade stainless steel blades that ensure an effortless grating experience. The ergonomic soft-touch handle provides comfort and stability during use, and the grater is also top-rack dishwasher-safe.
The Microplane 4-Sided Box Grater is a versatile option that offers four unique grating surfaces: ultra-coarse, fine, medium ribbon, and slicing. The blades are made in the USA and deliver unmatched sharpness and durability. Each blade is removable for easy cleaning. This grater also features an ergonomic handle and non-slip rubber feet for stability during use.
Microplane graters are known for their sharp blades, which make grating a variety of ingredients a quick and effortless task. They are constructed with durable materials, such as stainless steel, to ensure long-lasting sharpness and consistent results. The ergonomic designs of the handles and bases provide comfort and stability during use, making them a popular choice for chefs and home cooks alike.
Parmesan Portion Control: How Much is Too Much?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Microplaned Parmesan cheese is Parmesan cheese that has been grated using a Microplane grater.
A Microplane grater is a handheld grater that uses a stainless steel blade with ultra-sharp photo-etched teeth to finely grate a wide array of ingredients, including Parmesan cheese.
A Microplane grater can be used to finely crumble and break up Parmesan cheese, creating a different texture compared to other graters. It is also versatile, durable, and easy to clean.
To use a Microplane grater for Parmesan cheese, some people suggest partially freezing the cheese beforehand to make it easier to grate. The cheese is then rubbed against the grater to create a fine crumble.
Microplane graters can be purchased online from websites such as Microplane.com and Amazon, as well as in-store at various retailers.
