Parmesan

What Is Parmesan?

Parmesan (Parmigiano Reggiano) is a hard cheese made from raw cow’s milk in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region and aged for at least 12 months, usually longer. The long aging process creates its characteristic granular texture and sharp umami flavor.

Most products sold under the label “Parmesan” use the generic name for the original protected-designation Parmigiano Reggiano; similar methods are also used to make cheese in other countries.

Parmesan Nutrition Facts

Parmesan is a highly nutrient-dense cheese; 100 grams contains about 431 kcal of energy, 38.5 g of protein, and 1,109 mg of calcium. Its low moisture content means more protein and minerals in the same weight.

What Are the Benefits of Parmesan?

With its very high calcium and protein content, Parmesan provides substantial nutrients even in small amounts and can be part of a balanced diet.

This is general information; Parmesan is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment. Portion control matters because it is high in salt and calories.

How to Choose Parmesan

When buying Parmesan, look for a hard rind, a granular interior, and a pale yellow color.

• Buying it in a block and grating it just before serving best preserves its fresh aroma.
• Products stamped “Parmigiano Reggiano” on the rind are guaranteed to be authentic.
• Pre-grated packaged Parmesan loses its aroma more quickly.

How to Store Parmesan

Parmesan stays fresh for 3–4 weeks in the refrigerator when first wrapped in wax paper and then in foil. Its low moisture content helps it last much longer than other fresh cheeses.

Using Parmesan in the Kitchen

Parmesan is grated over pasta and risotto, shaved thinly into salads, and added to soups and sauces for umami flavor.

How to Use a Parmesan Rind

Save the Parmesan rind instead of throwing it away, and add it to the pot while soup, sauce, or risotto simmers; remove it at the end of cooking, after it has added deep umami flavor to the dish.

What Recipes Use Parmesan?

Cacio e pepe, risotto, Parmesan salad, pesto, and baked pasta are among the best-known Parmesan dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Parmesan good for?

Parmesan is a nutrient-rich cheese, even in small amounts, because it is very high in calcium and protein. It does not claim to cure any disease.

What is the difference between Parmesan and Grana Padano?

Both are Italian hard cheeses; Parmigiano Reggiano is generally aged longer and has a more intense flavor, while Grana Padano is a little softer and milder.

Does Parmesan contain lactose?

The long aging process breaks down most of the lactose in Parmesan; as a result, some people with lactose sensitivity may tolerate it more easily.

Why is Parmesan so expensive?

The long aging process, strict production rules, and protected designation of origin raise Parmesan’s cost and price compared with other cheeses.

Can Parmesan be frozen?

Parmesan can be frozen, especially when grated, and stored in the freezer for several months; however, the texture of a block may become a little dry after thawing.