Bushra Griffith
Parmesan cheese is a hard, dry cheese that is often grated and shredded. Its dryness means it does not need to be refrigerated, though refrigeration can prolong its lifespan. However, opinions vary on whether Parmesan should be refrigerated, with some sources recommending refrigeration to maintain freshness and quality. Processed cheeses like American cheese also do not require refrigeration until opened, while aged cheeses like cheddar and gouda can be stored at room temperature due to their low moisture content.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Texture | Hard and dry |
| Refrigeration | Not required but recommended for longevity |
| Best storage location | Crisper drawer |
| Best served | At room temperature |
| Production location | Northern Italy |
| Minimum aging time | One year |
| Other names | Parmigiano, Parmigiano Reggiano |
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What You'll Learn
Parmesan cheese is often found unrefrigerated in stores
However, it is important to note that while Parmesan cheese may be displayed unrefrigerated in stores, it is still recommended to refrigerate it at home to maintain its freshness and quality. Refrigeration can help extend the shelf life of Parmesan cheese and prevent it from spoiling.
The dryness of Parmesan cheese is a result of the grating or shredding process, which includes dehydration and evaporation steps. This reduction in moisture content contributes to the longer shelf life of the cheese and makes it suitable for storage at room temperature.
It is worth mentioning that the term "Parmesan" specifically refers to Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, which can only be made in a specific region of northern Italy using traditional methods and local cow's milk. This cheese is typically aged for a minimum of one year, contributing to its hard and dry texture. The ageing process also influences the flavour and aroma profiles of the cheese.
In summary, Parmesan cheese is often found unrefrigerated in stores due to its low moisture content and inherent acidity, which act as natural preservatives. However, for optimal freshness and quality, it is recommended to refrigerate Parmesan cheese once purchased.
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Refrigeration can help Parmesan cheese last longer
Parmesan cheese is a hard, dry cheese with a low moisture content, which means it can be stored without refrigeration for a short period. However, refrigeration helps to prolong its shelf life and preserve its quality.
Parmesan cheese, or Parmigiano, is a hard, dry cheese that is typically grated or shredded. Its dryness and low moisture content make it less prone to bacterial growth and spoilage than softer cheeses. However, refrigeration can still help to extend its shelf life and maintain its quality.
When stored in the refrigerator, Parmesan cheese can last for several weeks to months, depending on various factors such as packaging, temperature, humidity, handling, and the type of Parmesan. Properly sealed packaging and cold temperatures below 40°F (4°C) are crucial for slowing down bacterial growth and maintaining the cheese's texture and flavour.
Refrigeration also helps to prevent the cheese from drying out and protects it from absorbing odours from other foods in the fridge. An unopened block of Parmesan can last for several months beyond its expiration date when stored in the coldest part of the refrigerator. Once opened, it can still last for 4-6 weeks with proper storage.
Pre-grated Parmesan cheese, such as the kind that comes in a shaker, also benefits from refrigeration. While it may not be necessary to refrigerate it before opening, doing so can help prolong its shelf life and maintain its freshness and flavour. It is important to store grated cheese in an airtight container to prevent moisture and odours from affecting its quality.
In summary, while Parmesan cheese can be stored without refrigeration for a short period due to its dryness and low moisture content, refrigeration is recommended to extend its shelf life, preserve its quality, and ensure food safety. Proper storage practices, such as sealing and temperature control, are crucial for maximizing the longevity and enjoyment of this beloved cheese.
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Parmesan cheese is dry and hard
Parmesan is then aged for a minimum of one year, and often up to two years. The longer it is aged, the drier and more crumbly it becomes. This ageing process is what gives Parmesan its longevity and distinctive flavour. It is also why Parmesan is often grated, as a small sprinkle is enough to season an entire dish.
The dryness of Parmesan means that it does not need to be refrigerated, though refrigeration can extend its lifespan. However, if Parmesan does dry out too much, it can be revived using a trick popularised by Martha Stewart. This involves wrapping the cheese in a wet cheesecloth and plastic wrap, and leaving it in the refrigerator overnight to absorb moisture.
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Aged cheeses don't need to be refrigerated
Not all cheeses need to be refrigerated, and some can even benefit from being stored at room temperature. Aged cheeses, for example, often don't require refrigeration. Most aged cheeses are hard and have very low moisture content, which means they can be safely stored at room temperature without spoiling. This is because their low moisture content reduces the risk of the cheese going bad.
Aged cheeses that can be stored at room temperature include aged cheddar, aged gouda, aged Asiago, and mature cheddar. These cheeses have a firm, dry, and flaky texture, and a rich, sharp, tangy taste. To store them, wrap the cheese tightly in wax paper or cheesecloth and keep it in a cool, dry place. This will allow the cheese to continue developing its flavour and can help it last for several weeks to months.
Parmigiano-Reggiano, also known as Parmesan, is another cheese that doesn't require refrigeration. Parmesan is a hard, dry cheese that is often grated and has a very low water content, which means it is less likely to spoil when left out. However, refrigeration can help extend its shelf life. It is important to note that while Parmesan cheese itself does not need to be refrigerated, grated Parmesan cheese should be stored in the fridge to preserve its quality and freshness.
In addition to aged cheeses and Parmesan, other types of cheese that can be stored at room temperature include Pecorino Romano, a sheep's milk cheese with a firm texture and salty, tangy flavour, and processed cheeses like canned cheese, squeezable cheese, and sealed loaves or blocks of American cheese until they are opened.
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Other unrefrigerated cheeses include aged cheddar and gouda and processed cheeses
Parmesan cheese is a hard, dry cheese that is often grated and does not need to be refrigerated. Its low moisture content means it is less susceptible to bacterial growth and spoilage when left out of the fridge. Refrigeration can, however, help extend its shelf life.
Other unrefrigerated cheeses include aged varieties of cheddar and gouda. These are semi-hard cheeses that have been aged for at least two months, reducing their moisture content and making them ideal for storage at room temperature. Refrigeration can even negatively impact the aging process of these cheeses. It is important to note that while these cheeses can be stored at room temperature, they should be regularly checked for signs of spoilage, such as a bad smell, slimy surface, dark spots, dryness, cracks, or mold.
Processed cheeses like canned, squeezable, and sealed loaves or blocks of American cheese also don't need to be refrigerated until they are opened. These cheeses can be safely stored in a pantry until they are opened, after which they should be refrigerated.
Other examples of cheeses that can be left unrefrigerated include Asiago D’allevo, Appenzeller, and Pecorino Romano. These hard cheeses have low moisture content and low acidity, which allows them to be stored at room temperature.
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Frequently asked questions
Parmesan cheese, or Parmigiano Reggiano, is a hard and dry cheese that doesn't require refrigeration. You can find it at your local grocery store or cheese shop.
Parmesan cheese has a short aging process of around 10 months, during which it undergoes dehydration and evaporation, reducing the fat compounds and slowing the risk of the cheese going bad.
Yes, there are several other cheeses that don't require immediate refrigeration, such as aged cheeses, processed cheeses (until opened), and sheep's milk-based cheeses like Pecorino Romano.
While Parmesan doesn't require refrigeration, it is still a dairy product, and it's recommended to keep it at room temperature for no more than one hour to maintain its freshness and quality.
