PARMIGIANO REGGIANO Meaning and
Definition
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Parmigiano Reggiano is a famous Italian cheese with a hard and granular texture that is made from cow's milk. It is one of the most esteemed and exquisite cheeses globally, commonly known as Parmesan. This cheese takes its name from the two areas it is produced in: Parma and Reggio Emilia in Italy.
Parmigiano Reggiano is characterized by its pale yellow color and its distinct, nutty and savory flavor that intensifies with age. The cheese is carefully crafted by using high-quality, unpasteurized cow's milk, which is gently heated and combined with rennet to form curds. The curd is then cut into small pieces, heated, and stirred to separate the whey from the solid part. The curds are molded, and the cheese wheels are immersed in salted water for several weeks, a process known as brining. After brining, they are cured for a period of at least 12 months, typically up to 36 months or more, during which time they develop their remarkable flavors and texture.
Parmigiano Reggiano is widely recognized for its versatility in culinary use. It serves as both a table cheese and a staple ingredient in numerous dishes. It adds a rich and distinctive taste to pastas, risottos, salads, and soups and is often grated over main courses and appetizers. The cheese has strict production regulations in place to ensure its quality, and its protected designation of origin (PDO) status guarantees its authenticity and origin.
Overall, Parmigiano Reggiano is a renowned Italian cheese renowned for its exceptional taste, texture, and versatility, making it highly sought after by cheese connoisseurs and chefs worldwide.
Etymology of PARMIGIANO REGGIANO
The word "Parmigiano Reggiano" is a combination of two terms representing its origin and production.
"Parmigiano" refers to the city of Parma in the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy, where this cheese has been traditionally produced for centuries. Parma is known for its rich agricultural heritage and high-quality dairy products.
"Reggiano" derives from the region of Reggio Emilia, which is also located in Emilia-Romagna. Reggio Emilia, like Parma, has a strong cheese-making tradition and contributes to the production of Parmigiano Reggiano.
Thus, the term "Parmigiano Reggiano" literally means "Parmesan from Parma and Reggio Emilia" and serves as a geographical indication that distinguishes this particular type of cheese.
