what is parmesan made of ?

Introduction:

Parmesan is one of the most popular and widely used cheeses in the world. It is a hard, dry cheese that is typically grated or shredded and used as a topping for pasta dishes, pizzas, and salads. Parmesan cheese has a distinctive nutty and salty flavor that adds depth and complexity to any recipe. In this article, we will take a closer look at what Parmesan cheese is made of, its history, and how it is produced.

History of Parmesan Cheese:

Parmesan cheese has a long and rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages. It originated in the region of Emilia-Romagna in northern Italy, where it was known as Parmigiano-Reggiano. The cheese was first produced by Benedictine monks who were known for their expertise in cheese making. Over time, the production of Parmesan cheese became more widespread, and it became one of the most important products of the region.

Ingredients Used in Making Parmesan Cheese:

Parmesan cheese is made from just a few simple ingredients, including:

• Cow’s Milk: The primary ingredient used in Parmesan cheese is cow’s milk, which is sourced from local dairy farms in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy.
• Rennet: Rennet is a natural enzyme that is used to coagulate the milk and turn it into curds. It is typically sourced from the stomachs of young calves.
• Salt: Salt is added to the curds to enhance the flavor and help preserve the cheese.
• Starter Culture: A starter culture is added to the milk to help create the unique flavor and texture of Parmesan cheese.

Production Process of Parmesan Cheese:

The production process of Parmesan cheese is a time-consuming and labor-intensive process that requires a great deal of skill and expertise.

Here are the basic steps involved in making Parmesan cheese:

1. Milk is heated: The cow’s milk is heated to around 33-35 degrees Celsius to encourage the growth of bacteria.
2. Rennet is added: Once the milk reaches the desired temperature, rennet is added to the milk to coagulate it and form curds.
3. Curds are cut: The curds are then cut into small pieces to help release the whey.
4. Curds are heated: The curds are heated to around 55 degrees Celsius to help them firm up.
5. Curds are pressed: The curds are then placed into molds and pressed to remove any excess whey.
6. Cheese is salted: The cheese is then immersed in a brine solution for several weeks to help enhance the flavor and preserve the cheese.
7. Cheese is aged: Finally, the cheese is aged for a minimum of 12 months in a temperature and humidity-controlled environment. The longer the cheese is aged, the more intense the flavor becomes.

Conclusion:

Parmesan cheese is a delicious and versatile cheese that is beloved around the world. Its unique flavor and texture are the result of a centuries-old production process that has been perfected over time. By using just a few simple ingredients and following a careful and precise production process, Parmesan cheese makers have been able to create one of the most popular and widely used cheeses in the world.