Parmigiano Reggiano Unveiled: The Cheese Monarch's Epic Tale
Behind the RindMAR 12, 2024
From Italian Pastures to Your Plate – Everything You Need to Know!
When it comes to cheese, the name Parmigiano Reggiano stands out as the true "King of Cheese." Forget the generic grocery store containers; the authentic Parmigiano Reggiano is a culinary masterpiece that commands respect. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the origins, production process, and its distinction from Parmesan.
Where is Parmigiano Reggiano From, and How is It Made?
Parmigiano Reggiano hails from the Emilia-Romagna and Lombardy regions of Italy. It is crafted from 100% cow's milk, capturing the essence of the lush Italian pastures where the cows graze. The cheese-making process begins with collecting the milk, followed by aging the massive 80-pound wheels for up to 24 months. During this aging period, the cheese matures to achieve the perfect balance of saltiness and sweetness.
Murray's Parmigiano Reggiano is a special treat that we source directly from Italy. We collaborate with a farm in the hills of Parma, ensuring that we obtain the finest wheels for our customers. Our team personally samples and hand-selects each wheel to guarantee the ultimate flavor profile. These carefully chosen wheels are then brought to our headquarters in New York City for your enjoyment.
Is Parmigiano Reggiano the Same as Parmesan?
Not exactly. Parmigiano Reggiano is often referred to as Parmesan, but not all cheeses labeled as Parmesan are authentic Parmigiano Reggiano. As mentioned earlier, Parmigiano Reggiano is a protected designation of origin within the European Union, ensuring its authenticity and quality. While the term "Parmesan" is sometimes used to describe similar-style cheeses produced outside of Italy, true Parmigiano Reggiano is unmatched in flavor and quality.
What is Parmigiano Reggiano?
Parmigiano Reggiano, often referred to simply as "Parmesan," is a nutty and crumbly cheese that has enjoyed fame in Italy for centuries. This cheese is so esteemed that it's protected under strict D.O.P (Denominazione di Origine Protetta) regulations within the European Union. When you see a product labeled as Parmigiano Reggiano, you can be confident that it's authentic.
Belonging to the "Grana" family of cheeses, Parmigiano Reggiano is renowned for its distinctive qualities. It offers a crunchy texture, a bright tangy sweetness, and subtle notes of almonds and sweet caramel. Its iconic flavor profile makes it a favorite among cheese connoisseurs worldwide.
Why Choose Parmigiano Reggiano?
Parmigiano Reggiano's popularity spans centuries for good reason. It is not only delicious and snackable but also known for its exceptional grating qualities and impressive shelf life. Whether you're topping off a plate of fettuccine alfredo, cacio e pepe, or homemade spaghetti bolognese, a generous sprinkle of Parmigiano Reggiano elevates the flavors of your Italian dishes. Beyond pasta, this versatile cheese shines when shaved over roasted vegetables, making it a perfect companion for a wide range of recipes.
What sets Parmigiano Reggiano apart is its remarkable longevity. Thanks to its extra-hard texture, it can last in your fridge for an extended period, until you've grated it down to the rind. Additionally, Parmigiano rinds are prized ingredients in cooking. They can be added to soups and sauces to infuse a delightful tangy cheese essence into your culinary creations.
In conclusion, Parmigiano Reggiano is not just a cheese; it's a culinary treasure with a rich history and unparalleled flavor. So, whether you're grating it over your favorite pasta or exploring its versatility in various dishes, Parmigiano Reggiano is a cheese fit for royalty.
If you're eager to discover more Parmigiano Reggiano varieties, Murray's has you covered. We offer a range of options, from the delectably aged 5 Year Parm to entire 80-pound wheels, along with authentic Italian accompaniments. Dive into the world of Parmigiano Reggiano today!
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