Grocery
Parmesan Cheese
What it is
Parmesan cheese is a hard, granular cheese made from cow's milk. It is aged for a minimum of 12 months, and often much longer, which develops its characteristic sharp, nutty, and savory flavor. The texture becomes drier and more crumbly with age. It is a staple in Italian cuisine and widely appreciated for its intense taste and versatility.
How people cook with it
This cheese is a fantastic addition to many dishes, bringing a depth of flavor that is hard to replicate. It can be used both during cooking and as a finishing touch.
- Grated over pasta dishes
- Added to soups and stews
- Baked into gratins
- Shaved onto salads
Parmesan cheese can be used in a variety of ways. For a fine dusting, use a microplane grater to shave it directly over hot dishes like pasta or risotto. For larger flakes, a coarse grater works well. It can also be shaved into thin ribbons using a vegetable peeler for elegant garnishes. When cooking, it can be stirred into sauces or batters to add richness and umami. It melts beautifully when heated, making it ideal for baked dishes and gratins.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to softer cheeses, Parmesan has a much lower moisture content due to its extended aging process. This results in a firmer texture and a more concentrated flavor profile. Its crystalline structure, formed by tyrosine crystals, gives it a unique granular feel and a distinct sharpness.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike use this cheese to elevate their culinary creations.
How to keep the rest
To maintain its quality, wrap any leftover Parmesan tightly in parchment paper or cheese paper, then place it in a plastic bag or airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator. Avoid wrapping it directly in plastic wrap, as this can trap moisture and affect the texture.