Parmesan cheese, also known as Parmigiano-Reggiano, is a hard Italian cheese with unique nutritional qualities. Let’s explore its health aspects:
1. Nutrition: Parmesan cheese is highly nutritious. It’s rich in protein, ready-to-use fat, and nutrients that support bone health. Specifically, it contains high levels of calcium, which helps build strong bones and teeth, and phosphorus, which aids in cell growth and maintenance.
2. Digestibility: Parmesan cheese is easy to digest, making it a favorable choice for many people.
3. Origin: Traditionally, Parmesan cheese is made through a 1,000-year-old manufacturing process in specific Italian regions. Within the European Union (EU), only cheese produced in the northern Italian provinces of Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, Bologna, and Mantua can be called and sold as Parmesan or Parmigiano-Reggiano.
4. Caloric Content: Despite its high fat and calorie content, Parmesan cheese can be a healthy option when consumed in moderation. Like most rich foods, it’s best enjoyed in reasonable amounts.
In summary, Parmesan cheese offers a balance of flavor, nutrition, and tradition. Enjoy it as part of a varied diet, and savor its unique taste!
What are some recipes that use Parmesan cheese?
Certainly! Parmesan cheese is a versatile ingredient that adds rich flavor to various dishes. Here are some delicious recipes that make the most of Parmesan cheese:
1. Jalapeno Popper Spread: A creamy and flavorful spread that’s reminiscent of jalapeno poppers. Perfect for parties and gatherings.
2. Parmesan Risotto: Creamy Italian rice dish where the rice is sautéed and slowly cooked in wine and seasonings.
3. Parmesan Chicken Couscous: Cleverly uses leftover chicken in an innovative dish, served with a side of fresh fruit.
4. Parmesan-Coated Brie: Impress your guests with this appetizer—golden exterior, warm, melty cheese, perfect for French bread or crackers.
5. The Best Eggplant Parmesan: A favorite dish with unforgettable flavors, combining eggplant, cheeses, and seasonings.
6. Chicken Parmesan Stromboli: A fusion of chicken Parmesan and stromboli, creating a delightful family favorite.
7. Parmesan Fettuccine: A simple side dish with just four ingredients, ready to please the entire family.
8. Baked Spaghetti: A cheesy twist on pasta, great for any meal, and leftovers freeze well.
9. Rich & Creamy Parmesan Mashed Potatoes: Divine comfort food for special occasions, made with cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan.
10. Parmesan Asparagus: A simple side dish with only four ingredients, baked to perfection.
11. Zucchini Onion Pie: A creative way to use zucchini when it’s in season, perfect for a different twist.
12. Parmesan Zucchini Bread: A rustic, textured loaf with old-fashioned appeal.
Feel free to explore these recipes and enjoy the delightful taste of Parmesan cheese!
How is Parmigiano-Reggiano made?
Parmigiano Reggiano, also known as Parmesan cheese, is no ordinary cheese. It’s made using a centuries-old process with just three simple, natural ingredients: milk, salt, and rennet. Let me take you through the fascinating journey of how this iconic cheese is crafted:
1. Coagulation: The milk is heated, and the starter culture and rennet are added. This allows the milk to slowly and naturally coagulate, forming curds.
2. Curds Formation: These curds are broken into tiny granules and then cooked until they become one single mass.
3. Wheel Formation: The mass is shaped into two large wheels, which are then immersed in a saltwater brine. This brining process imparts flavor and helps preserve the cheese.
4. Aging: After brining, the wheels are removed and left to age for a minimum of 12 months. However, some Parmigiano Reggiano wheels mature for much longer—24 months, 36 months, 40 months, or even more. As it ages, the cheese’s texture becomes crumbly and pleasantly grainy, while its aroma and flavor deepen with notes of spice and nuts.
5. Protected Domination of Origin (PDO): Parmigiano Reggiano is a PDO cheese, meaning it undergoes strict monitoring and rigorous testing. Only cheese produced in specific Italian provinces—such as Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, Bologna (to the left of the river Reno), or Mantua (to the right of the river Po)—can be called and sold as Parmigiano Reggiano. The land where it’s made is as crucial as the ingredients and traditional methods used.
6. Milk Source: The milk used for Parmigiano Reggiano must come from cows that are fed locally grown forage, grass, and hay. This attention to detail ensures the cheese’s exceptional quality.
When you pick up a wedge of Parmigiano Reggiano at the grocery store, remember that you’re holding a piece of history, tradition, and culinary excellence!
How can I store Parmesan cheese?
Storing Parmesan cheese properly ensures its freshness and flavor. Here are some tips for preserving this delightful cheese:
1. Wrap It Well: Use wax paper, parchment paper, or cheese paper to wrap the Parmesan. Avoid using plastic wrap directly, as it can trap moisture and affect the cheese’s quality.
2. Refrigerate: Store the wrapped cheese in the refrigerator. The ideal temperature range is between 32°F to 40°F (0°C to 4°C). Keep it away from the back of the fridge, where it’s colder.
3. Avoid Air Exposure: Air exposure can lead to drying out. If you have a cheese storage container with small holes for ventilation, that’s perfect. Otherwise, wrap it tightly to minimize air contact.
4. Cheese Paper: If you have cheese paper, use it. It’s designed to maintain the right humidity level while allowing the cheese to breathe.
5. Avoid Plastic Bags: As mentioned earlier, avoid plastic bags. They can create a sweating effect, leading to moisture buildup.
6. Grated Parmesan: If you have grated Parmesan, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to use it within a few days for optimal flavor.
7. Freezing: Parmesan can be frozen, but it’s better to freeze it in small portions. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw it in the refrigerator when needed.
Remember, Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese, so it has a longer shelf life compared to softer cheeses. Proper storage ensures you can enjoy its nutty, savory goodness in various dishes!