Bushra Griffith
Parmesan cheese powder is a shelf-stable, versatile powder made from aged parmesan cheese. It is also known as parmesan powder, powdered parmesan cheese, dehydrated parmesan cheese powder, or parmesan cheese seasoning. Parmesan cheese powder is made from real cheese that has been dehydrated and finely milled. This powder is often used to add depth and richness to dishes, including appetizers, dips, sauces, soups, and salad dressings. It can also be sprinkled on foods such as pasta, pizza, french fries, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and popcorn.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| What is it made from? | Real parmesan cheese that has been dehydrated and finely milled |
| How is it made? | By shaving down parmesan rinds, cutting them into small chunks, and microwaving them until they puff up and start to brown |
| Uses | Adding depth and richness to dishes, sprinkling on appetizers, dips, spreads, pasta, pizza, roasted vegetables, french fries, popcorn, mashed potatoes, and bread |
| Taste | Salty, nutty, umami |
| Other names | Parmesan powder, powdered parmesan cheese, dehydrated parmesan cheese powder, parmesan cheese seasoning, shaker parm |
| Health | Gluten-free, keto-friendly, rBST hormone-free, nut-free, non-GMO |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
How to make parmesan cheese powder
Parmesan cheese powder is a versatile ingredient that adds a rich, Italian flavour to various dishes. It can be used as a flavour enhancer in appetizers, dips, sauces, soups, marinara, and salad dressings, or simply sprinkled over pasta, pizza, roasted vegetables, or french fries. Making parmesan cheese powder at home is a simple process and a great way to make the most of leftover parmesan cheese rinds or blocks. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make your own:
Step 1: Prepare the Parmesan Cheese
Start by trimming any wax or very hard exterior layers from the parmesan cheese rind or block using a paring knife. This step is optional but recommended as the exterior may be difficult to grind down and can affect the texture of the powder.
Step 2: Cut the Cheese into Small Pieces
Cut the parmesan cheese into small chunks, aiming for a size of around 1 to 2 inches. This step prepares the cheese for the microwaving process and ensures even cooking.
Step 3: Microwave the Cheese
Place the cheese chunks on a microwave-safe plate and microwave them on high power. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the cheese pieces and the power of your microwave, but on average, it should take around 90 seconds to 2 minutes. Keep a close eye on the cheese during this process to avoid burning it. You will know it is ready when it puffs up slightly and starts to turn dry and brown.
Step 4: Grind the Cheese into a Powder
Once the cheese is cooled down, use a mortar and pestle to grind the pieces into a fine powder. Alternatively, you can place the cooled cheese chunks in a bag and smash them with a heavy object until they turn into a powder. This method may be quicker and more suitable for larger batches.
Step 5: Store the Powder
Transfer the freshly made parmesan cheese powder to an airtight container and store it in the fridge. It should stay fresh for a few weeks, allowing you to sprinkle or blend it into your favourite recipes whenever needed!
And there you have it—your very own homemade parmesan cheese powder, ready to elevate your pasta, popcorn, grilled cheese sandwiches, or any other dish that could benefit from a burst of savoury flavour.
Discover the Magic of Chopped Parmesan Cheese
You may want to see also
Uses of parmesan cheese powder
Parmesan cheese powder is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes to add a rich, Italian flavour. Here are some common and creative ways to use this pantry staple:
Pasta, Pizza, and Other Savoury Baked Goods
Parmesan cheese powder can be sprinkled generously over pasta dishes, such as pasta with sauces, marinara, or pasta-based bakes like lasagne, to enhance their flavour. It can also be added to the dough or filling of pizza, pizza buns, muffins, cheesy ciabatta loaves, or pull-apart bread for an extra savoury kick.
Popcorn and Snacks
For a tasty snack, sprinkle parmesan cheese powder over freshly made stovetop popcorn. You can also add a drizzle of butter and a crack of pepper to create a cacio e pepe-inspired flavour profile. The powder can also be used to season other snacks like pretzels, french fries, or warmed chips.
Vegetables and Salads
Enhance the flavour of roasted or fresh vegetables with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese powder. It can also be used in salad dressings or as a topping for mashed potatoes.
Soups and Sauces
Add depth of flavour to soups, stocks, or sauces by stirring in some parmesan cheese powder. This is a great way to add a creamy, savoury note to your favourite comfort foods.
Appetizers and Dips
Sprinkle parmesan cheese powder over appetizers like stuffed mushrooms or devilled eggs. It can also be blended into dips, such as spinach dip or artichoke dip, for a more complex flavour profile.
With its savoury, umami notes, parmesan cheese powder is a handy ingredient to elevate many dishes. Its convenience and strong flavour make it a go-to for quick flavour enhancements.
Sheep's Cheese and Parmesan: What's the Real Deal?
You may want to see also
Where to buy parmesan cheese powder
Parmesan cheese powder is a great way to add an Italian flavour to your dishes. It can be used in pastas, sauces, soups, risottos, salad dressings, marinara, and more. You can also sprinkle it on cooked vegetables as a seasoning.
You can buy parmesan cheese powder from several online retailers, including:
- American Spice Co.: The company offers parmesan cheese powder in bulk and also carries other cheese powders, such as cheddar and white cheddar.
- Judee's: This company offers a gluten-free parmesan cheese powder that is made in a dedicated gluten-free facility. The product is shipped in a stand-up, resealable pouch to ensure freshness.
- Colonel De Gourmet Herbs & Spices: This company offers a parmesan cheese powder that is said to have a very noticeable flavour. The price is listed per ounce.
In addition to these specialised spice retailers, you may also be able to find parmesan cheese powder at larger online retailers, such as Amazon, or at specialty food stores.
Soy in Parmesan: What You Need to Know
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Health benefits of parmesan cheese powder
Parmesan cheese powder is a versatile condiment that can enhance the flavour of various dishes, from pasta and pizza to appetizers and salads. Beyond its culinary applications, parmesan cheese powder also boasts several health benefits.
Firstly, parmesan cheese is a good source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and preventing osteoporosis, a condition that weakens the bones. This makes it a valuable addition to the diet, especially as we age and our calcium intake tends to decrease.
Secondly, parmesan cheese powder is a lactose-free dairy product. Lactose intolerance affects a significant portion of the global population, and parmesan's lactose-free nature makes it a more digestible option for those individuals.
Additionally, parmesan cheese is a rich source of protein, which is particularly beneficial for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet. Protein-rich foods like parmesan cheese are recommended for vegetarians to ensure they obtain sufficient protein in their diet.
Moreover, parmesan cheese contains several other nutrients vital for bone health, including phosphorus and zinc. These nutrients work in conjunction with calcium to promote overall bone health and strength.
While parmesan cheese powder offers these health benefits, it is important to remember that it is also high in calories due to its protein and fat content. Therefore, while it can be a nutritious addition to meals, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Parmesan: The Healthiest Cheese Option?
You may want to see also
Parmesan cheese powder vs. grated parmesan
Parmesan cheese powder is a popular way to add a rich, Italian flavour to pasta, sauces, soups, marinara, and even fresh vegetables. It is also used on appetizers, dips, popcorn, chips, and other savoury snacks. Powdered parmesan is also known as "shaker parm".
When it comes to choosing between Parmesan cheese powder and grated Parmesan, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, convenience and versatility. Powdered Parmesan can be easily sprinkled or blended into a variety of dishes, making it a convenient and versatile option for adding flavour. It is also useful as a binder in dishes like meatloaf or meatballs, similar to how breadcrumbs are used.
On the other hand, grated Parmesan has its own unique texture and flavour. Grated Parmesan can vary in quality, with some preferring the taste of pricey, aged Italian varieties. However, more affordable options, like a blend of grated Italian cheeses, can still provide a good flavour at a lower cost. The texture of grated Parmesan is an important consideration, especially when comparing it to the fluffiness of powdered options. Some grated varieties can be rubbery, while others are known for their fluffiness, like Kraft's powdered parm, which was described as "cheesy cotton candy".
In terms of taste, those seeking the traditional salty, savoury, and nutty flavours of Parmesan may prefer a blend of grated Parmesan-Romano, which is said to taste like freshly grated Parmesan. This blend also offers a slight "funk", characteristic of a good Parmesan. However, for those who want a milder option, powdered Parmesan can provide a more subtle flavour while still adding the desired saltiness and cheesiness to a dish. Ultimately, the choice between powdered and grated Parmesan depends on the specific culinary application, taste preferences, and desired texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Is It Clean or Unclean?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Parmesan cheese powder is a shelf-stable, versatile powder made from aged Parmesan cheese. It is also known as parmesan powder, powdered parmesan cheese, dehydrated parmesan cheese powder, or parmesan cheese seasoning.
Parmesan cheese powder is salty and nutty with the umami flavour of creamy cheese.
Parmesan cheese powder can be used as a seasoning to add depth and richness to a dish. You can sprinkle it on popcorn, pizza, mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, pasta, french fries, and more. It can also be blended into sauces, soups, casseroles, dips, and salad dressings.
