Parmesan vs Parmigiano Reggiano: What's the Key Difference?

When shopping for Parmesan cheese, it's crucial to realize that not all Parmesan varieties are the same. More specifically, the Parmesan you find in a plastic container at the supermarket is often far removed from the authentic, umami-rich Parmigiano Reggiano from Italy. So, how can you tell if you're buying the genuine article or a far less impressive imitation? The key difference between Parmesan and Parmigiano Reggiano lies in strict regulations—Parmigiano Reggiano must be made in specific Italian regions and aged for at least 12 months. In contrast, generic Parmesan can be produced anywhere worldwide using various ingredients, with no aging requirement. Want to learn more about how Parmigiano Reggiano distinguishes itself from ordinary Parmesan? Keep reading!

What Exactly Is Parmesan?

The term “Parmesan” is the English translation of the Italian word “Parmigiano Reggiano.” However, unlike authentic Parmigiano Reggiano, which is produced in Italy under strict regulations, the Parmesan commonly found on supermarket shelves in the United States is unregulated. Without any rules in place, there's a significant likelihood that the cheese you buy isn’t even made in Italy, let alone the prized Italian variety of Parmigiano Reggiano. Instead, this imitation cheese is often a mix of other cheeses that are tasty in their own right but fall short of the revered Parmigiano Reggiano. So, what makes Parmigiano Reggiano stand out? Let’s explore.

What is Parmigiano Reggiano?

Parmigiano Reggiano is an Italian cheese that has been made in specific regions of Italy for centuries, using only raw milk, rennet, and salt. Unlike many cheeses, Parmigiano Reggiano is made without additives and is also lactose-free. Today, Parmigiano Reggiano is a cheese with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), meaning it must be produced under strict conditions. Authentic Parmigiano Reggiano can only be made in certain Italian areas—Parma (the region it’s named after), Reggio Emilia, Modena, Mantua (east of the Po River), or Bologna (west of the Reno River). Moreover, authentic Parmigiano Reggiano must be made from raw milk sourced from cows fed only grass, hay, and other vegetarian ingredients from these regions. This specific milk, influenced by the cows' diet, plays a crucial role in giving the cheese its unique, nutty flavor. Parmigiano Reggiano must also age for at least 12 months, the longest minimum aging period for any PDO cheese. As the cheese matures, its flavors evolve. After 24 months, it develops a rich, buttery taste and crumbly texture, though it can continue to age for 36 or even 48 months, gaining more complex flavors. Each wheel is quality-tested, marked with its place of origin (the “dots” on the rind), and given an oval “selection mark” to distinguish it from other cheeses.

What Does Parmigiano Reggiano Taste Like?

The flavor of Parmigiano Reggiano varies depending on its age. Fabrizio Raimondi, head of external relations for the Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium in Reggio Emilia, Italy, explains that younger Parmigiano Reggiano (aged 12 to 15 months) has a strong lactic aroma (think milk, yogurt, and butter) and a more delicate flavor. At 24 to 28 months, Parmigiano Reggiano fully expresses its distinct qualities, with notes of nuts and spices like nutmeg, as well as a delightful crumbly texture due to tyrosine crystals. “Those white spots on the cheese aren’t salt or calcium; they’re tyrosine—an amino acid present in the cheese that also indicates the degree of aging,” says Raimondi. As Parmigiano Reggiano continues to age (36 to 48 months), it becomes drier and grainier, with a more intense flavor, offering distinct notes of nutmeg and pepper. Parmigiano Reggiano can even be aged for 60 months, 100 months, or longer, developing new flavor nuances over time.

How to Use and Cook With Parmigiano Reggiano

As Parmigiano Reggiano matures, its flavor evolves, making it an incredibly versatile cheese that can be enjoyed in more ways than just grating it over pizza or pasta. For cheeses aged between 12 and 15 months, it pairs wonderfully with fresh fruits, vegetables, and eggs. According to Raimondi, young Parmigiano Reggiano goes perfectly with dry white wines, fresh pears, and green apples. It also complements chocolate, beef carpaccio, and more. As Parmigiano Reggiano continues to age, the flavors deepen and become nuttier, with both sweet and savory notes. At 24 to 28 months of aging, it can be paired with even more robust flavors, such as red wine, walnuts, figs, plums, and traditional balsamic vinegar from Modena or Reggio Emilia. This stage of Parmigiano Reggiano also excels in savory tarts, fondue, hearty soups, and classic Italian dishes like ravioli and risotto. Parmigiano Reggiano aged 36 to 48 months has a bold, distinctive flavor that pairs best with ingredients that can match its intensity. Raimondi suggests pairing it with full-bodied red wines like Barolo or Barbaresco, honey, or aged Modena balsamic vinegar. No matter its age, Parmigiano Reggiano is an excellent choice for snacking and a great addition to any cheese platter or charcuterie board.

How Do You Know If You’re Buying Authentic Parmigiano Reggiano?

Now that you know how versatile and delicious Parmigiano Reggiano can be, it’s essential to recognize the difference between genuine Parmigiano Reggiano and its imitations when shopping for this exquisite cheese. Raimondi offers some helpful tips. First, always check that the product is clearly labeled as ‘Parmigiano Reggiano’ with no alternatives. Another important indicator is the logo of the Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium, which should be visible on any pre-packaged product (this applies to products that are packaged outside the store, directly from the area of origin). The exterior of the cheese also provides clues: If you’re buying wedges, examine the rind for the word ‘Parmigiano Reggiano’ printed in dots—this is the easiest way to confirm authenticity.

How to Store Parmigiano Reggiano

Since real Parmigiano Reggiano tends to be more expensive than imitation varieties, it's essential to store it properly. Fortunately, this cheese is more durable than many others and doesn't require much attention to keep it fresh. Raimondi recommends storing freshly cut Parmigiano Reggiano or an opened vacuum-sealed pack in the refrigerator at a temperature between 39 and 46 degrees Fahrenheit, in a glass or plastic container. Alternatively, you can wrap it in plastic wrap. When stored correctly, Parmigiano Reggiano can last for several months, depending on its age. Younger cheeses (aged 12-18 months) have a higher moisture content and can be stored for about 15 days, while more mature cheeses (24 months or older) last about a month. Vacuum-packed Parmigiano Reggiano can be kept in the refrigerator for several months. However, freezing Parmigiano Reggiano is not recommended, as Raimondi points out that cheese should never be frozen.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is Parmigiano Reggiano Parmesan?

  Parmigiano Reggiano is a distinct cheese that is only made in specific regions of Italy, following strict regulations covering everything from the cows’ diet to the aging process. Just because a product is labeled 'Parmesan,' it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s authentic Parmigiano Reggiano. To ensure you’re buying the genuine article, look for the Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium logo on the packaging or check for the phrase 'Parmigiano Reggiano' written out in dots on the cheese rind. You can also consult your local cheesemonger for assistance.