Patrick Oconnell
Shaved aged Parmesan cheese is a variety of the classic Italian cheese, Parmigiano Reggiano, that has been aged for a minimum of 10 to 18 months. This ageing process gives the cheese its signature sweet, nutty flavour and granular texture. Shaved Parmesan is cut into thin slices or ribbons, which makes it perfect for sprinkling on soups, salads, pasta, meats, and vegetables. It is also a popular snack on its own, offering a burst of flavour with each bite.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Texture | Thinly sliced, long ribbons, granular |
| Taste | Sweet, nutty, fruity, bold |
| Aroma | Rich, distinct |
| Uses | Soups, salads, pasta, chicken, veal, vegetables, bread |
| Pairings | Dry-aged charcuterie meats |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Shaved Parmesan is aged for a minimum of 10-18 months
Shaved Parmesan is a variety of the classic household cheese, Parmesan, which is carefully aged to enhance its flavour and texture. The ageing process for Parmesan typically ranges from 10 to 18 months, with some varieties aged for even longer to achieve the desired characteristics.
The ageing process is crucial in developing the distinct sweet, nutty flavour and aroma of Parmesan. Master cheesemakers employ their expertise to ensure consistent ageing, regularly inspecting and hand-turning each wheel of cheese. This meticulous craftsmanship brings forth the bold, nutty notes and subtle hints of crushed apple that distinguish well-aged Parmesan.
During the ageing process, the cheese wheels are often kept in special caves, where the unique environment contributes to the development of Parmesan's complex characteristics. The ageing duration and cheesemaking techniques work together to create the granular texture that is a hallmark of high-quality Parmesan.
The minimum ageing period for shaved Parmesan is typically set at 10 to 18 months. This ageing duration is chosen to strike a balance between enhancing the cheese's flavour and preserving its texture. A longer ageing time would result in a harder, more granular cheese, while a shorter period might not fully develop the sought-after nutty flavour.
The ageing process not only contributes to the flavour and texture of Parmesan but also influences its versatility in various dishes. Shaved Parmesan, with its ideal balance of ageing and texture, pairs perfectly with soups, salads, pasta, meats, and steamed vegetables. The thin, delicate shavings melt effortlessly, seamlessly integrating the cheese into a variety of culinary creations.
Parmesan Cheese: Safe Treat or Feline Danger?
You may want to see also
It has a sweet, nutty flavour
Shaved aged Parmesan cheese is a delightful ingredient that adds a unique touch to various dishes with its sweet and nutty flavour. This distinct flavour profile is a result of the careful aging process that Parmesan undergoes. The aging duration ranges from 12 to 36 months, and sometimes even longer, contributing to the development of its characteristic taste. During this aging period, the cheese undergoes a transformation as its flavour becomes more pronounced and intricate.
The sweet and nutty flavour of aged Parmesan is a result of the cheese's complex chemistry. As the cheese ages, the milk sugars undergo a transformation, breaking down and developing sweeter notes. This process also contributes to the formation of tiny crunchy crystals, adding a delightful texture contrast. The longer aging period allows the cheese to develop a more intense flavour, enhancing the nuttiness that is reminiscent of almonds or other tree nuts. This sweet and nutty combination provides a delightful sensory experience, making it a favourite among cheese connoisseurs.
The aging process also influences the texture of Parmesan, making it ideal for shaving. As the cheese ages, it becomes harder and more crystalline in structure. This transformation results in a cheese that can be finely shaved, creating delicate, thin strips that melt effortlessly on the tongue. The shaving process highlights the craftsmanship involved in cheese-making and elevates the dining experience. Shaved Parmesan has a lighter, more delicate appearance compared to grated or shredded cheese, adding a refined touch to dishes.
When shaved, aged Parmesan cheese becomes the perfect garnish or finishing touch for a wide array of dishes. Its sweet and nutty flavour enhances pasta dishes, salads, soups, and even desserts. The delicate shavings add a subtle crunch and a burst of flavour with each bite. The versatility of this cheese is showcased in its ability to complement both savoury and sweet dishes, adding a layer of depth and intrigue to the overall flavour profile. Whether used as a table-side garnish or incorporated during the cooking process, shaved aged Parmesan brings a touch of sophistication and culinary delight.
The sweet, nutty flavour of shaved aged Parmesan cheese is a testament to the artistry of dairy craftsmanship. Its unique taste and texture elevate dishes, adding a layer of complexity and refinement. This delicate ingredient showcases the beauty of aged cheeses and the transformative power of time and care in the cheese-making process. When shaved atop dishes, aged Parmesan not only delights the palate but also captivates the senses, making it a beloved and indispensable component of culinary traditions worldwide.
Aged Parmesan cheese, with its sweet and nutty flavour, is a versatile ingredient that adds depth and complexity to culinary creations. Its delicate shavings contribute to a refined dining experience, making it a favourite among chefs and food enthusiasts alike. Whether adorning a plate of pasta or enhancing the flavour of a salad, the sweet and nutty notes of aged Parmesan leave a lasting impression, inviting diners to savour every mouthful.
The Perfect Fruit Partners for Parmesan Cheese
You may want to see also
It pairs well with vegetables, salads and meats
Shaved aged Parmesan cheese is a hard, granular cheese that has a rich, complex flavour and a slightly gritty texture. It is made from cow's milk and is typically aged for at least 12 months, although some varieties can be aged for up to 36 months. During the ageing process, the cheese becomes harder and more flavourful, making it ideal for shaving into thin, delicate pieces. This style of serving enhances the dining experience by adding a textural contrast and an intense burst of flavour to a variety of dishes.
One of the reasons shaved aged Parmesan cheese is so versatile is its unique flavour profile. It has a sharp, salty taste with nutty and fruity notes, making it a perfect complement to a wide range of ingredients. When paired with vegetables, the cheese adds a depth of flavour and a pleasant crunchy texture. It works especially well with roasted or grilled vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini. Simply sprinkle some shaved Parmesan on top just before serving to elevate the dish.
In salads, shaved aged Parmesan plays a starring role by adding a salty, savoury element and a contrasting texture to the crisp freshness of the greens and vegetables. It pairs beautifully with bitter leaves like arugula or radicchio, and its savoury notes also complement sweet ingredients like beets, carrots, or fresh berries. To finish off a salad, a few delicate shavings of Parmesan will enhance the overall flavour and visual appeal.
Meats also benefit from the addition of shaved aged Parmesan cheese. Its sharp, salty flavour can enhance a wide variety of meats, from grilled steaks to roasted chicken or pork. The cheese can be used as a garnish, adding a subtle salty note and a textural contrast to the meat. It is also an essential ingredient in classic Italian dishes like Chicken Parmesan, where the cheese is melted on top of the meat, creating a crispy, golden crust.
Cellulose and Anti-Caking Agents in Parmesan Cheese: What's the Deal?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Its thin slices expose more surface area to air, enhancing flavour
Shaved aged Parmesan cheese is a delicious, versatile ingredient that can enhance a variety of dishes. Its thin slices expose more surface area to the air, intensifying its flavour and aroma. This unique characteristic of shaved Parmesan sets it apart from other forms of cheese and makes it a favourite among cheese connoisseurs.
When Parmesan cheese is shaved, its surface area increases significantly compared to when it is in a block, chunk, or grated form. This increased surface area allows more air to come into contact with the cheese, influencing its flavour and aroma. The air interacts with the compounds within the cheese, causing subtle chemical changes that contribute to its overall sensory experience.
The thin slices of shaved aged Parmesan cheese offer a more immediate and intense flavour release when consumed. As the cheese melts or dissolves in the mouth, its complex nutty, fruity, and sweet notes are swiftly released, creating a burst of flavour that delights the palate. This rapid flavour release is a result of the increased surface area exposed to the air, enhancing the overall taste sensation.
Moreover, the thin slices of shaved Parmesan provide a textural contrast that is highly desirable in culinary applications. The ribbons of cheese offer a delicate, light appearance while retaining a satisfying bite. This textural contrast adds interest and variety to dishes, making shaved Parmesan a popular choice for garnishes, salads, soups, and pasta dishes.
The process of ageing Parmesan cheese for a minimum of 12 to 18 months is also crucial to developing its distinctive flavour. During this maturation period, the cheese undergoes a transformation as its natural enzymes break down the curd, resulting in the formation of new compounds that contribute to its sweet, nutty, and fruity notes. The ageing process, combined with the increased surface area exposed to air due to shaving, synergistically enhances the flavour of this beloved Italian cheese.
In summary, the thin slices of shaved aged Parmesan cheese expose more surface area to the air, intensifying its flavour and aroma. This exposure enhances the sensory experience, delivering a swift and robust release of its complex flavour profile. Shaved Parmesan's unique characteristics make it a versatile and sought-after ingredient in kitchens worldwide, adding a touch of indulgent flavour to a variety of culinary creations.
Parmesan Cheese: Aisle Location at Harris Teeter
You may want to see also
It is made from cow's milk
Shaved aged Parmesan cheese is made from cow's milk. It is produced by aging the cheese for a minimum of 10 to 18 months, which results in its distinct sweet, nutty flavour and granular texture. The ageing process involves the careful inspection and hand-turning of each wheel of cheese to ensure consistent maturation. This labour-intensive process is essential for developing the unique characteristics of Parmesan cheese.
Parmesan cheese, known for its versatility, enhances various dishes with its rich, complex flavour. The process of shaving the aged cheese creates thin, delicate pieces that melt easily and provide a burst of flavour when sprinkled on salads, vegetables, meats, or pasta. The shaving also exposes a larger surface area, intensifying the flavour experience compared to grated or shredded Parmesan.
The milk used in Parmesan cheese production is gathered fresh daily from local farmers. This emphasis on high-quality milk contributes to the cheese's premium taste and aroma. The milk is then carefully crafted into cheese wheels, which are aged in special caves to develop their distinctive characteristics.
Cow's milk is an essential component of Parmesan cheese, providing the foundation for its flavour and texture. The specific type of milk, along with the ageing process and skilled craftsmanship, contributes to the cheese's overall quality and uniqueness. The combination of these factors results in the beloved shaved aged Parmesan cheese enjoyed by many.
In summary, shaved aged Parmesan cheese is a delicacy crafted from cow's milk and refined through a meticulous ageing process. Its distinct flavour, texture, and versatility in culinary applications have made it a favourite among cheese enthusiasts and a sought-after ingredient in kitchens worldwide.
Is Parmesan Paleo?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Shaved aged Parmesan cheese is a variety of the classic Italian Parmesan cheese that has been aged for a minimum of 10 to 18 months to enhance its flavour. It is then shaved into thin slices or long ribbons.
Shaving aged Parmesan results in a distinctively granular texture and a slightly fruity, nutty flavour.
Shaved Parmesan has a more authentic texture than shredded or grated varieties, and its thin slices ensure that you get lots of cheesy goodness in every bite.
Shaved Parmesan is perfect for sprinkling on vegetables, salads, pasta, pizza, risotto, or baked goods. It can also be paired with dry-aged charcuterie meats.
Shaved Parmesan is made with fresh milk gathered daily from local farmers. Each wheel is aged in special caves and carefully inspected and hand-turned by master cheesemakers to ensure a consistent ageing process.
