What To Know
- If you are looking for a sharp, nutty cheese with a hard, crumbly texture, then Parmesan cheese is a good option.
When it comes to hard, aged cheeses, Parmesan cheese and Parmesan Reggiano are two of the most popular and well-known varieties. But what exactly is the difference between these two cheeses? And which one is right for you?
History and Origin
Parmesan cheese, also known as Parmigiano-Reggiano, is a hard, granular cheese produced in the provinces of Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, and Bologna in Italy. It has a long history, dating back to the Middle Ages. Parmesan Reggiano, on the other hand, is a specific type of Parmesan cheese that is produced under strict regulations in the same regions of Italy. Only cheese that meets these regulations can be labeled Parmesan Reggiano.
Production Process
The production process for Parmesan cheese and Parmesan Reggiano is similar, but there are a few key differences. Parmesan cheese is made from cow’s milk, while Parmesan Reggiano is made from the milk of cows that are fed a diet of grass and hay. Additionally, Parmesan Reggiano is aged for a longer period of time than Parmesan cheese, which gives it a more complex flavor.
Taste and Texture
Parmesan cheese has a sharp, nutty flavor and a hard, crumbly texture. Parmesan Reggiano, on the other hand, has a more complex flavor that is often described as fruity or buttery. It also has a harder texture than Parmesan cheese.
Uses
Parmesan cheese and Parmesan Reggiano can both be used in a variety of dishes. They are both excellent for grating over pasta, pizza, and salads. They can also be used as a topping for soups and stews. Parmesan Reggiano is also often used as a cooking cheese, and it can be melted into sauces or used to make cheese fondue.
Price
Parmesan cheese is typically less expensive than Parmesan Reggiano. This is due to the fact that Parmesan Reggiano is produced under stricter regulations and is aged for a longer period of time.
Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the best cheese for you will depend on your personal preferences. If you are looking for a sharp, nutty cheese with a hard, crumbly texture, then Parmesan cheese is a good option. If you are looking for a more complex flavor and a harder texture, then Parmesan Reggiano is a better choice.
Parmesan Cheese vs. Parmesan Reggiano: A Summary
| Feature | Parmesan Cheese | Parmesan Reggiano |
| — | — | — |
| Origin | Italy | Italy |
| Milk | Cow’s milk | Cow’s milk from cows fed grass and hay |
| Aging | 12-24 months | 24-36 months |
| Flavor | Sharp, nutty | Complex, fruity, buttery |
| Texture | Hard, crumbly | Hard, dense |
| Uses | Grating, topping, cooking | Grating, topping, cooking, melting |
| Price | Less expensive | More expensive |
The Verdict
Parmesan cheese and Parmesan Reggiano are both delicious and versatile cheeses. Ultimately, the best cheese for you will depend on your personal preferences. If you are looking for a sharp, nutty cheese with a hard, crumbly texture, then Parmesan cheese is a good option. If you are looking for a more complex flavor and a harder texture, then Parmesan Reggiano is a better choice.
Frequently Discussed Topics
- What is the difference between Parmesan cheese and Parmesan Reggiano?
Parmesan cheese is a hard, granular cheese produced in the provinces of Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, and Bologna in Italy. Parmesan Reggiano is a specific type of Parmesan cheese that is produced under strict regulations in the same regions of Italy. Only cheese that meets these regulations can be labeled Parmesan Reggiano.
- Which one is better, Parmesan cheese or Parmesan Reggiano?
The best cheese for you will depend on your personal preferences. If you are looking for a sharp, nutty cheese with a hard, crumbly texture, then Parmesan cheese is a good option. If you are looking for a more complex flavor and a harder texture, then Parmesan Reggiano is a better choice.
- Can I use Parmesan cheese and Parmesan Reggiano interchangeably?
Yes, you can use Parmesan cheese and Parmesan Reggiano interchangeably in most recipes. However, Parmesan Reggiano will have a more complex flavor and a harder texture.
- What are some popular dishes that use Parmesan cheese or Parmesan Reggiano?
Parmesan cheese and Parmesan Reggiano can be used in a variety of dishes, including pasta, pizza, salads, soups, and stews. They can also be used as a topping for sandwiches and burgers.
- Where can I buy Parmesan cheese and Parmesan Reggiano?
Parmesan cheese and Parmesan Reggiano can be found at most grocery stores and specialty food stores. You can also buy them online.
