Eat it and die happily (Parmesan (Parmigiano Reggiano))

Member Name: Mizio

Product:	Parmesan (Parmigiano Reggiano)
Date:	01/04/01 (129 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Strong, voluptous taste. Versatile

Disadvantages: Expensive

Parmigiano is a typical Italian hard-cheese, mostly used to dress pasta and salad dishes, but it can be eaten on its own with bread or pears (as the connoisseurs) do.
Parmigiano has its origins in Northern Italy, more precisely in the areas around Parma and Reggio Emilia.

Parmigiano is called "the great cheese of eight centuries" because the ancient formula has remained unchanged throughout 800 years of history which has transformed the face of continents. Today's cheese is the same as that enjoyed by the armoured knights, bonded serfs and saints of history. Records dating back to 1200-1300 AD describe the characteristics of Parmigiano as they have been handed down to this day.
Indeed, in order to call their product "Parmigiano", modern producers have to adhere to strict controls. For instance, the cheese has to age for at least 12 months (preferably 36) and has to be produced with the best quality milk only.

In terms of versatility, Parmigiano can virtually be used on all pasta dishes (except those based on fish). The most popular and tasty pairing is with ragu' sauce, known outside of Italy as "bolognese" sauce. The rich wine-based tomatoe and meat sauce provides a great counter-balance to the strong taste of Parmigiano. In modern times, the Americans have invented the Ceaser salad, a salad with croutons, parmisan cheese and cream. Though not being a particular fan of this salad dressing, I can't help sprinkle or chop a few bits of parmigiano on my salads.
Additionally, Parmigiano can be used as starter, for example, together with breasaola (ham made from cows) olive oil and rocket, or with pears, a recipe invented by Italian friars in the middle ages who could not escape the sinful taste of this wonderful cheese.

The only negative about this cheese is that it is expensive. In most parts of the world, parmisan cheese (the original) is too expensive to eat at home and can only be t
asted at restaurants.

As far as I can say, if you are a cheese lover, Parmigiano has to be part of your top-3 cheeses.

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