Belgioioso · 28 g
Belgioioso All Natural Romano Cheese, 28g
What it is
This is a wedge of hard, dry Italian cheese made from sheep's milk. It is aged for at least five months, which develops its sharp, salty, and nutty flavor. The texture is firm and granular, making it easy to grate. It is a staple in many Italian-American dishes, offering a robust taste that stands up well to other strong flavors. The natural aging process contributes to its distinct aroma and taste profile.
How people cook with it
Romano cheese is a versatile ingredient that adds a savory depth to a wide range of dishes. Its strong flavor makes it a favorite for finishing and enhancing meals.
- Grated over pasta
- Sprinkled on pizza
- Mixed into sauces
- Added to soups
To best utilize this Romano cheese, start by removing it from its packaging. For recipes that call for finely incorporated cheese, use a microplane grater to achieve a powdery texture. If a coarser grate is desired, a standard box grater will work well. This cheese melts beautifully when heated, making it suitable for sauces and baked dishes. It can also be shaved into thin ribbons for a decorative and flavorful topping. Remember that its saltiness means you may need to adjust the salt in your recipe accordingly.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to Parmesan, Romano cheese typically has a sharper, saltier, and more pungent flavor due to its sheep's milk base and longer aging. While both are hard grating cheeses, Romano's intensity offers a more pronounced bite, making it a bolder choice for certain culinary applications.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike use Romano cheese to bring authentic Italian flavor to their creations.
How to keep the rest
After opening, wrap the remaining cheese tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator's cheese drawer or the coldest part of your fridge. Properly stored, it can maintain its quality for several weeks, though its flavor will be best when consumed sooner.