Parmesan cheese Nutrition facts and Health benefits

Buying

Buy aged parmesan from authentic sources. Look for the Parmigiano-Reggiano stamp on the rind of the cheese to ensure its authenticity. Parmigiano-Reggiano or Grana Padano is imprinted in dots on the rind along with the producer’s number and the month and year of production.

Younger Parmesan (aged for around 12-18 months) has a softer texture and milder flavor, while older Parmesan (aged for 24 months or more) has a harder texture and sharper, nuttier flavor.

It should have a firm, dry and “close” bodied.

Parmesan cheese should be firm and slightly grainy, with a crumbly texture. It should have a pleasant, slightly nutty aroma. Avoid If the cheese smells off or sour, it may not be fresh. Also, avoid cheeses that feel soft or rubbery.

Storing

At home, store Parmesan cheese in the refrigerator at a temperature between 32°F and 40°F (0°C and 4°C), away from moisture.

Keep it in its original packaging until you’re ready to use it. Once opened, wrap the cheese tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.

Parmesan cheese can last for several months in the refrigerator if stored properly. However, it is important to check the cheese for any signs of mold or spoilage before using it.

It can also be frozen for longer storage up to 6 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to use, thaw the cheese in the refrigerator overnight.

Food uses

Parmesan cheese possess a slightly fruity aroma and sweet taste that uplifts the flavor of any simple dish it is added to. It can be used grated in a wide variety of dishes, such as pasta, risotto, soups, and salads.

pasta- spaghetti with bacon, parmesan and yolk egg. Courtesy: Marco verch

• Parmesan cheese is a classic topping for pasta dishes, such as spaghetti with tomato sauce, fettuccine alfredo, or carbonara.

• It can be added to risotto for a rich, creamy texture and nutty flavor.

• It can be shaved or grated over salads for added flavor and texture. It pairs well with greens, such as arugula, and can also be added to Caesar salad dressing.

• Parmesan rind can be added to soups and stews to add flavor and depth to the broth.

• Grated parmesan over pizza for added flavor and texture.

• It can be grated over roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or broccoli, for added flavor.

• Parmesan cheese can be used to bread chicken or fish before frying, or can be added to meatballs or meatloaf for added flavor.

• Add it to creamy sauces, such as alfredo sauce or béchamel, for added flavor and richness.

Safety profile

Parmesan cheese has a generally good safety profile. One of the main safety concerns with this cheese is the potential for bacterial contamination, particularly from the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes.

Another safety concern with Parmesan cheese is the potential for allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to cow’s milk. so, it is not suitable for people with a dairy allergy or lactose intolerance.

Strong cheeses, including parmesan, are high in tyramine content, and if a person on Mono-amine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI’s) medication like Phenelzine (Nardil) consumes cheeses, he may develop a medical emergency known as “hypertensive (high blood pressure) crisis” which have symptoms like severe headache, sweating,
nosebleeds, fast heartbeat, chest pain, blurring of vision, shortness of breath, and confusion, and should seek immediate medical attention. Also, they need to continue following a low-tyramine diet for a few weeks after stopping these medications. (Medical Disclaimer)

Source: Mayo clinic: MAOI’s and diet.

Also read ≻≻-

≻≻- Cheddar cheese nutrition facts.

≻≻- American Cream cheese nutrition facts.

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