Parmesan cheese is a commercial kitchen staple that adds a burst of flavour to almost any dish. If you’re lucky enough to be cooking with Di Prato Parmesan, a brand known for its authentic taste and high quality. These five essential tips will help you appreciate all that this cheese has to offer.
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The Older, The Better: How to Maximise the Flavour of Di Prato Parmesan
One key factor that sets Di Prato Parmesan apart from other cheeses is its aging process. Like any fine Parmesan, Di Prato’s variety gets better with age. Authentic Parmesan must be aged for at least 12 months, but Di Prato Parmesan is often aged for a minimum of 18 months, making it a great choice for those who crave a bold, rich taste.
The older Parmesan becomes, the more complex its flavour profile. Expect a slightly nutty, fruity taste with distinct savoury notes. For the best experience, try savouring a small piece on its own before using it in cooking. For an added twist, shave or crumble it onto salads or pastas, allowing the rich taste to shine through in every bite.
2. Perfect Pairings: Wine and Vinegar to Complement Di Prato Parmesan
Parmesan’s robust and savoury flavour calls for drinks and accompaniments that balance or highlight its intensity. Di Prato Parmesan pairs particularly well with sparkling white wine. A crisp Prosecco or even a bottle of Champagne is a great match for this cheese, with enthusiasm cutting through its richness and enhancing the overall dining experience. Red wine lovers, don’t despair—try pairing it with Lambrusco, a sparkling red wine from Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, to match the flavours beautifully.
Another ideal pairing for Di Prato Parmesan is high-quality balsamic vinegar, especially the traditional variety from Modena. Drizzling a few drops over chunks of Parmesan can create a stunning appetiser. The balsamic’s sweet and tangy notes perfectly complement the cheese’s nutty, savoury taste.
3. Think Beyond Pasta: Creative Ways to Use Di Prato Parmesan
While Parmesan is often synonymous with pasta, there are so many more ways to incorporate Di Prato Parmesan into your cooking. For a delicious appetiser, try combining chunks of Parmesan with fresh fruit like pears or figs. The contrast between the sweetness of the fruit and the sharpness of the cheese is incredible.
Looking for a way to make your breakfast a little more gourmet? Swap out traditional hollandaise sauce for a creamy Parmesan sauce on your eggs, Benedict. The richness of the cheese adds an extra layer of flavour that you’ll love. You can even sprinkle grated Di Prato Parmesan over avocado toast for a twist on a breakfast classic.
4. Say No to Seafood: Why Parmesan and Seafood Don’t Always Mix
While Di Prato Parmesan works wonders in many dishes, there are a few culinary situations where it’s best to leave it out. Parmesan’s intense, salty flavour can overpower the delicate taste of seafood.
For example, in dishes like seafood risotto or linguine with clams, the cheese’s strong profile can mask the fresh, subtle aroma of the seafood. Additionally, Parmesan is a hard cheese that doesn’t melt as easily as others, which can create a clumpy texture when combined with seafood.
Of course, there are exceptions! Parmesan pairs wonderfully with some seafood dishes, like spaghetti with mussels. The cheese’s robust flavour nicely complements the briny, savoury taste of the mussels. When using Di Prato Parmesan, trust your taste buds—sometimes less is more.
5. Roast, Bake, and Top: Parmesan in Roasted Vegetable Dishes
Di Prato Parmesan shines when it’s used to enhance the flavour of roasted vegetables. As the cheese melts, it creates a deliciously crisp, savoury topping that adds texture and taste. For a simple yet elegant dish, toss vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast them until they’re tender and caramelised, then sprinkle a generous amount of freshly grated Di Prato Parmesan on top. The nutty, salty taste of the cheese perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the roasted veggies.
For a heartier option, try making eggplant Parmesan without the breading. Simply slice the eggplant, roast it with olive oil, and top it with tomato sauce and grated Di Prato Parmesan. Broil the dish until the cheese is golden and bubbling. It’s a comforting and flavourful vegetarian dish that showcases the versatility of Parmesan.
Additionally, when you’re cooking for a crowd, having a bulk supply of grated and shaved Parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty flavour to everything from pasta to roasted vegetables.
Di Prato Parmesan is a cheese lover’s dream, offering rich, bold flavours that can transform any dish into something extraordinary. By following these five essential tips, you’ll be able to make the most of this premium cheese. Whether you’re pairing it with wine, drizzling it with balsamic, or using it to top your favourite roasted vegetables, Di Prato Parmesan is a versatile ingredient that elevates any meal. Happy cooking!