Tips for Choosing the Parmesan Cheese
How to Choose Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan cheese, also known as parmigiano-reggiano, is a hard, granular cheese with a complex and nutty flavor. It is often grated over dishes like pasta and salads, but it can also be enjoyed on its own. When choosing Parmesan cheese, there are a few key factors to consider.
Look for the Real Thing
First and foremost, make sure you are getting the real deal. Parmesan cheese is protected by a protected designation of origin (PDO), which means that only cheese produced in certain regions of Italy using specific methods can be labeled as such. If a cheese is labeled "Parmesan" but is not from one of these regions, it is not the real thing. Look for the words "parmigiano-reggiano" on the label to ensure you are getting the authentic cheese.
Consider the Age
Parmesan cheese is aged for a minimum of 12 months, but it can be aged for up to 36 months or more. The longer the cheese is aged, the sharper and more complex the flavor will be. If you want a more subtle, mild flavor, look for Parmesan that is aged for 12-18 months. For a sharper, more intense flavor, opt for a cheese that is aged for 24 months or longer.
Check the Texture
Parmesan cheese should be hard and granular, with a crystalline texture. If the cheese is too soft or crumbly, it may not be fresh or of high quality. To check the texture, try breaking off a small piece of the cheese. It should be firm and break cleanly, with a slightly gritty texture.
Trust Your Nose
Parmesan cheese should have a distinct, nutty aroma. If it doesn't smell like anything, or if it has a strong or off-putting smell, it may not be fresh or of good quality. To check the aroma, take a small piece of the cheese and sniff it. It should have a rich, nutty scent.
Conclusion
When choosing Parmesan cheese, look for the real deal, consider the age, check the texture, and trust your nose. With these tips in mind, you can find a high-quality Parmesan cheese that will add depth and flavor to your dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Parmesan cheese good or bad for you?
Parmesan cheese has health benefits but is high in calories. Consuming it in large quantities can lead to weight gain, increasing the risk of diseases like heart attack and stroke. It is best to enjoy Parmesan cheese in moderation.
2. What is so special about Parmesan cheese?
Parmesan cheese, specifically Parmigiano Reggiano, is made with simple and natural ingredients and undergoes a unique aging process. It is an excellent source of nutrients like calcium, amino acids, protein, and vitamins. A single ounce of Parmigiano Reggiano contains more protein than beef and nearly ten times more calcium than milk.
3. What's the difference between Asiago and Parmesan?
Asiago cheese is slightly more buttery, creamy, and nutty compared to Parmesan. Asiago can have a noticeable bitterness, especially aged Asiago Stravecchio. Parmesan, on the other hand, is sharper, more robust, and has fruity, savory, and earthy notes.
4. What are the three types of Parmesan cheese?
The three types of Parmesan cheese are Parmigiano Reggiano, Pecorino Romano, and Grana Padano. Each has its own unique profile and can be used in different ways. It's important to understand their differences to showcase them effectively in recipes.
5. Is parmesan cheese OK for weight loss?
Parmesan cheese, along with other cheese variants like Feta, low-fat cottage cheese, cheddar, and swiss, can be excellent choices for weight loss. These cheeses are nutrient-dense and come in low-calorie servings, making them suitable for weight management, including reducing belly fat.
6. Is parmesan cheese healthier than regular cheese?
Parmesan cheese is highly nutritious and can be a good choice for those with lactose intolerance or seeking easily digestible proteins. It is aged, has a strong flavor, and a crumbly texture. Parmesan cheese may also support bone health.
7. Is it OK to eat parmesan cheese by itself?
Yes, it is perfectly fine to enjoy Parmesan cheese by itself. Its versatility makes it delicious on its own or when added to various dishes, such as pasta.
8. Which is milder Parmesan or Romano?
Parmesan cheese has a milder taste compared to Romano. This is because Parmesan is made with unpasteurized cow's milk, whereas Romano is made with more assertive-tasting sheep's milk.
9. Is Asiago or Romano more like Parmesan?
Asiago cheese, like Parmesan, is made from unpasteurized cow's milk. It has a sharper, nuttier flavor compared to Parmesan or Romano. Asiago is often softer than Romano and is commonly enjoyed on its own or as part of a cheeseboard.
10. Which Parmesan is stronger?
Parmigiano-Reggiano is stronger in taste compared to Grana Padano. Parmigiano-Reggiano is aged for a minimum of 12 months, resulting in a more complex, nuttier, and saltier flavor. Grana Padano is often used in cooking, while Parmigiano-Reggiano is commonly grated on top of dishes.
Editor's Notes
During our parmesan cheese research, we found 27 parmesan cheese products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 39,845 customer reviews through our big data system to write the parmesan cheese list. We found that most customers choose parmesan cheese with an average price of $12.82.
The parmesan cheese are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of parmesan cheese, including Parmigiano Reggiano, ARTSTAR, Latteria Soresina, Happy Belly, Flora Fine Foods. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 672 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.
Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!
