Italian cuisine is well-known for its variety of cheeses. Among them, Parmigiano Reggiano and Parmesan are two of the most popular and beloved. However, the question remains: what’s the difference between these two kinds of cheese? In this article, we’ll explore the history, production process, taste, nutritional value, culinary uses, price, and availability of Parmigiano Reggiano and Parmesan to uncover their unique differences.
Production Process
Parmigiano Reggiano
Origin and regulations
Parmigiano Reggiano is a hard, granular cheese that originates from the Italian regions of Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, Bologna, and Mantua. The production process of Parmigiano Reggiano is regulated by a consortium, and it must follow strict rules to be considered authentic. For example, the cheese must be made from the milk of cows that are raised in the production area and fed only local fodder. Furthermore, the cheese can only be made in copper vats, and it must be aged for at least 12 months.
Milk and curdling process
To make Parmigiano Reggiano, the milk is heated and then mixed with rennet, an enzyme that causes the milk to curdle. The curds are then cut into small pieces and placed in molds, where they are pressed to remove any remaining whey. After this, the cheese is soaked in brine to add flavor and prevent mold growth.
Aging process
The final step in the production process of Parmigiano Reggiano is aging. The cheese is left to age for at least 12 months, but some varieties are aged for up to 36 months. During this time, the cheese develops its distinct flavor, texture, and aroma.
Parmesan
Origin and regulations
Parmesan is a cheese that comes from the same region as Parmigiano Reggiano, but it is not regulated in the same way. While Parmigiano Reggiano is protected by a consortium and can only be made in a specific area, Parmesan can be made anywhere in the world. Furthermore, there are no rules regarding the type of milk that can be used to make Parmesan, and it does not have to be made in copper vats.
Milk and curdling process
The process of making Parmesan is similar to that of Parmigiano Reggiano. Milk is heated and mixed with rennet to curdle the milk, and the curds are cut into small pieces and placed in molds. The cheese is then pressed to remove any remaining whey and soaked in brine.
Aging process
Parmesan is aged for at least 12 months, but some varieties can be aged for up to 48 months. During this time, the cheese develops its flavor, texture, and aroma.
Taste and Flavor
Parmigiano Reggiano
Flavor profile
Parmigiano Reggiano has a nutty and fruity flavor with a subtle sweetness. It has a complex flavor profile, with notes of caramel, butter, and salt. The longer the cheese is aged, the more intense the flavor becomes.
Texture
Parmigiano Reggiano has a hard, granular texture. It is dry and crumbly, but it can also be slightly grainy.
Aroma
Parmigiano Reggiano has a distinctive, pungent aroma. It is rich and slightly earthy, with hints of hay and nuts.
Parmesan
Flavor profile
Parmesan has a slightly sweeter and more delicate flavor than Parmigiano Reggiano. It has a nutty, buttery, and slightly fruity taste. However, the flavor of Parmesan can vary greatly depending on where it is produced and how long it is aged.
Texture
Parmesan has a hard and crumbly texture. It is slightly grainy, but it can also be smooth and creamy.
Aroma
Parmesan has a mild, nutty aroma. It is not as pungent as Parmigiano Reggiano and has a more subtle scent.
Nutritional Value
Parmigiano Reggiano
Calories and macronutrients
Parmigiano Reggiano is a relatively high-calorie cheese, with around 110 calories per ounce. It is also rich in protein, with around 8 grams per ounce, and low in carbohydrates.
Vitamins and minerals
Parmigiano Reggiano is a good source of calcium, with around 330 mg per ounce. It also contains other important vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin B12, and zinc.
Parmesan
Calories and macronutrients
Parmesan is similar to Parmigiano Reggiano in terms of its macronutrient profile. It has around 110 calories per ounce and is high in protein and low in carbohydrates.
Vitamins and minerals
Parmesan is also a good source of calcium, with around 310 mg per ounce. It contains other important vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A and vitamin B12.
Culinary Uses
Parmigiano Reggiano
Grating
Parmigiano Reggiano is commonly grated over pasta dishes, risotto, and salads. It can also be used as a topping for soups and stews.
Cooking
Parmigiano Reggiano can be used in a variety of recipes, including meatballs, meatloaf, and casseroles. It can also be used as breading for chicken or fish.
Parmesan
Grating
Parmesan is also commonly grated over pasta dishes, risottos, and salads. It is often used as a topping for pizza.
Cooking
Parmesan can be used in a variety of recipes, including lasagna, pesto, and vegetable dishes. It can also be used as a garnish for soups and stews.
Price and Availability
Parmigiano Reggiano
Price
Parmigiano Reggiano is generally more expensive than Parmesan, due to the regulations surrounding its production.
Availability
Parmigiano Reggiano is widely available in specialty cheese shops, supermarkets, and online.
Parmesan
Price
Parmesan is generally less expensive than Parmigiano Reggiano, due to the lack of regulations surrounding its production.
Availability
Parmesan is widely available in supermarkets and online. It can also be found in specialty cheese shops, but the quality can vary greatly.
Conclusion
While Parmigiano Reggiano and Parmesan may seem similar at first glance, there are significant differences between the two. Parmigiano Reggiano is a protected cheese that can only be made in a specific region of Italy, while Parmesan can be made anywhere in the world. Parmigiano Reggiano is also generally more expensive and has a more complex flavor and aroma than Parmesan. However, both kinds of cheese are delicious and versatile, and they can be used in a variety of culinary applications. Whether you choose Parmigiano Reggiano or Parmesan, you can be sure that you are getting a high-quality cheese that will add depth and richness to your favorite dishes.
When choosing between Parmigiano Reggiano and Parmesan, it is important to consider the differences in flavor, texture, and aroma. While both kinds of cheese are delicious, they have distinct characteristics that can make a difference in certain recipes. For example, Parmigiano Reggiano may be a better choice for a pasta dish, where its complex flavor can shine, while Parmesan may be a better choice for a pizza, where its mild flavor won’t overpower the other toppings.
It is also important to consider the nutritional value of these cheeses. Both Parmigiano Reggiano and Parmesan are high in protein and calcium, making them a good addition to a healthy diet. However, due to their high-calorie content, it is important to enjoy them in moderation.
When it comes to price and availability, Parmesan is generally less expensive and more widely available than Parmigiano Reggiano. This can make it a good option for budget-conscious shoppers or those who don’t have access to specialty cheese shops.
In conclusion, whether you prefer Parmigiano Reggiano or Parmesan, there is no denying that these cheeses are some of the most delicious and versatile ingredients in the culinary world. With their complex flavors, rich textures, and impressive nutritional profiles, they are a must-have in any home cook’s pantry. So go ahead and experiment with these two delicious kinds of cheese in your next recipe, and see for yourself which one you prefer!
