PARMIGIANO Reggiano Cheese per 100g

Parmesan cheese – or, to give it its full Italian title, Parmigiano-Reggiano – is one of the world's most popular and beloved cheeses. Known as the king of cheeses, Benedictine monks from the Parma-Reggio region of Italy stumbled upon the recipe through trial and error over a thousand years ago. The cheese is so valuable that one Italian bank accepts wheels of parmesan as collateral. Indeed, in 1666, during the Great Fire of London, famed diarist Samuel Pepys rushed into his garden and buried his most prized possessions: gold, notes, and a wheel of parmesan cheese.

The production of Parmesan cheese is not just a process; it’s a labor of love. Each step, from the meticulous selection of the milk to the patient aging process, is a testament to the dedication and skill of the cheesemakers. It is this devotion to their craft that gives Parmesan cheese its exceptional taste and texture.

Parmesan is special because it is protected by a PDO status, meaning it must be produced following specific traditional methods in designated regions of Italy, including Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, Bologna to the west of the Reno River, and Mantua to the east of the Po River. There are similar cheeses, such as Parmesan-style or Grana Padano, which are less expensive alternatives.

The cheese is often grated and sprinkled on pasta dishes, salads, and other Italian and Mediterranean dishes. It's a key ingredient in dishes like spaghetti carbonara and risotto.