At a glance
- The flavour profile of parmesan changes with age: younger cheese is milder, while aged parmesan offers a sharp, nutty bite.
- Classic pairings include fruits (pears, figs, grapes) for a sweet contrast, balsamic vinegar for a tangy touch, and nuts (walnuts, almonds) for a nutty harmony.
- For the adventurous, parmesan can be paired with creamy dishes (risotto, polenta) to cut through the richness, spicy dishes (tomato sauce, chilli) to temper the heat, and even dark chocolate for a surprising flavour bomb.
Parmesan cheese, the king of Italian cheeses, holds a revered position in kitchens across the globe. Australians, with their adventurous palates and love for a good cheeseboard, are no strangers to its salty, nutty magic. But parmesan’s potential goes far beyond a simple sprinkle on pasta. When paired thoughtfully, it can elevate even the most basic dish into a flavour sensation.
For those looking to explore the full potential of parmesan, understanding how it interacts with other ingredients is key. Whether you’re a home cook whipping up a midweek meal or a professional chef crafting a restaurant masterpiece, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to create the perfect parmesan pairings.
The Beauty of Parmesan: A Spectrum of Flavours
Parmesan, also known as Parmigiano-Reggiano, boasts a complex flavour profile that develops over time. Young parmesan (aged 12-18 months) offers a milder, slightly sweet taste with notes of fresh milk and cream. As it matures (24-36 months+), the flavour intensifies, evolving into a rich, savoury profile with a pronounced nuttiness and a sharp, crystalline bite. This range of flavours within parmesan itself opens a world of possibilities when it comes to pairing.
Complementary Classics: Bringing Out the Best in Parmesan
For those just starting their parmesan pairing journey, some tried-and-true combinations never disappoint.
- Fruity Counterpoints: The sweetness and acidity of fresh fruits like pears, figs, and grapes provide a delightful contrast to parmesan’s sharpness. A simple platter featuring parmesan shavings, sliced pear, and a drizzle of honey is a timeless and elegant appetiser.
- A Touch of Sweetness: Balsamic vinegar’s tangy sweetness complements parmesan beautifully. Drizzle it over a salad topped with parmesan for a burst of flavour, or use it as a dipping sauce for parmesan crisps.
- Nutty Harmony: The rich, buttery flavour of walnuts, almonds, and pistachios mirrors the nuttiness of parmesan, creating a harmonious flavour experience. A handful of chopped nuts sprinkled over a pasta dish with parmesan or a slice of parmesan alongside a slice of crusty bread smeared with walnut pesto are simple yet satisfying combinations.
Exploring the Unexpected: Parmesan for the Adventurous
For those seeking to push the boundaries, parmesan offers a surprising versatility.
- Creamy Dream Team: Parmesan’s sharp bite can cut through the richness of creamy dishes. Try adding a handful of grated parmesan to risotto or a creamy polenta for a delightful textural and flavour contrast.
- A Touch of Spice: A sprinkle of parmesan over a spicy tomato sauce or a chilli-infused dish can temper the heat while adding a savoury depth.
- The Dark Side: Don’t be afraid to experiment with dark chocolate. The contrasting bitterness of dark chocolate can surprisingly enhance the nuttiness of parmesan, creating a sophisticated and unexpected flavour bomb.
Taking it Up a Notch: Sourcing the Perfect Parmesan
When it comes to creating the most successful parmesan pairings, the quality of the cheese itself plays a crucial role. Wholesale dairy suppliers offer a wider selection of parmesan grades and ages, allowing you to find the perfect cheese for your desired flavour profile. Look for authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano DOP (Denominazione di Origine Protetta), a designation that guarantees the cheese meets strict production standards and hails from specific regions in Italy.
Wholesale dairy suppliers can provide you with parmesan cheese in bulk, allowing you to experiment with these flavour combinations to your heart’s content. With its long shelf life and endless culinary applications, parmesan cheese is a pantry staple that offers endless possibilities.