Grating parmesan cheese: the art and science revealed

Parmesan cheese, a quintessential ingredient in Italian cuisine, adds an umami-rich flavor and salty tang to a wide range of dishes. Grating it fresh is key to unlocking its full potential and bringing out its delicate nuances. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to elevate your culinary skills, this comprehensive guide will teach you how to grate Parmesan cheese like a pro.

Choosing the Right Grater

The type of grater you use will significantly impact the texture and consistency of your grated Parmesan. Here are the most common options:

Box Grater

A versatile tool with four sides featuring different grating holes. The coarse side is ideal for creating large, fluffy shavings, while the fine side produces a more powdery texture.

Microplane Grater

A handheld grater with tiny, sharp teeth that create extremely fine and even shavings. Perfect for adding a subtle touch of Parmesan to salads, soups, and sauces.

Rotary Grater

A cylindrical grater with a crank handle that rotates the cheese against a fixed blade. Produces consistent, medium-sized shavings with minimal effort.

Preparing the Cheese

Before grating, it’s essential to remove the rind from the Parmesan block. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut around the outside edge, leaving behind only the hard, crumbly interior.

Grating Techniques

Coarse Shavings

Using the coarse side of a box grater or a rotary grater, hold the cheese block firmly and move it back and forth over the holes. Apply moderate pressure to create large, fluffy shavings that are perfect for topping pasta dishes or salads.

Fine Shavings

For a more delicate texture, use the fine side of a box grater or a microplane grater. Hold the cheese block at a slight angle and move it over the teeth in short, gentle strokes. This produces powdery shavings that dissolve easily into sauces or soups.

Zesting

To create tiny, flavorful curls of Parmesan, use a microplane grater or a zester. Hold the cheese block perpendicular to the grating surface and gently move it back and forth. Zested Parmesan is a great garnish for pizzas, risottos, and desserts.

Storing Grated Parmesan

Freshly grated Parmesan should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To preserve its flavor and texture, avoid freezing it.

Tips for Perfect Grating

• Use a sharp grater to prevent the cheese from crumbling.
• Hold the cheese block firmly to ensure even grating.
• Apply consistent pressure for consistent shavings.
• Rotate the cheese block regularly to distribute the grating evenly.
• If the cheese starts to stick to the grater, wipe it clean with a damp cloth.
• For best results, grate Parmesan just before serving to preserve its freshness.

Grating Parmesan for Different Dishes

The texture and consistency of grated Parmesan can vary depending on the dish you’re preparing. Here are some guidelines:

Pasta

Coarse shavings are ideal for topping pasta dishes, as they melt and coat the noodles evenly.

Sauces

Fine shavings dissolve easily into sauces, adding a subtle richness and depth of flavor.

Salads

Zested Parmesan creates a delicate and flavorful garnish that adds a touch of elegance to salads.

Risotto

Fine or coarse shavings can be used in risotto, depending on the desired texture.

Soups

Fine shavings dissolve into soups, creating a creamy and flavorful broth.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I grate Parmesan cheese in a food processor?

Yes, but it’s not recommended as it can produce a powdery texture.

2. Why does my grated Parmesan turn brown?

Exposure to air can cause grated Parmesan to oxidize and turn brown. Store it in an airtight container to prevent this.

3. Can I grate other hard cheeses using these methods?

Yes, these techniques can be used to grate other hard cheeses such as Pecorino Romano, Asiago, and Manchego.