The ultimate guide to parmesan cheese in marinara sauce: tips, tricks, and controversies

The age-old culinary debate rages on: should parmesan cheese grace the surface of a marinara sauce? While some purists vehemently oppose its inclusion, others embrace it as an essential element of the dish. To shed light on this contentious topic, let’s delve into the history, tradition, and taste implications of parmesan cheese in marinara sauce.

The Historical Roots

Marinara sauce, originating in Naples, Italy, has a rich history dating back to the 16th century. Traditional Neapolitan marinara sauces were crafted with a simple combination of tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs. Parmesan cheese was not typically added to the sauce during this time.

The Rise of a Culinary Trend

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as Italian cuisine gained popularity outside of Italy, parmesan cheese began to emerge as a popular topping for marinara sauce. This trend was likely influenced by the growing availability of parmesan cheese in other regions and the desire to enhance the flavor of the sauce.

The Argument for Inclusion

Proponents of parmesan cheese in marinara sauce argue that it adds a savory, salty richness that complements the acidity of the tomatoes. The cheese’s umami flavor enhances the overall taste experience and creates a more complex and satisfying sauce.

The Argument for Exclusion

Traditionalists, on the other hand, contend that parmesan cheese disrupts the delicate balance of flavors in a marinara sauce. They argue that the cheese’s strong flavor can overpower the more subtle notes of the tomatoes and herbs. Additionally, they believe that parmesan cheese does not belong in a sauce intended to accompany seafood, as it can mask the delicate flavors of the fish.

The Regional Variations

The use of parmesan cheese in marinara sauce varies greatly across different regions of Italy. In Naples, where the sauce originated, parmesan cheese is rarely used. However, in northern Italy, it is more common to see parmesan cheese sprinkled over marinara sauce.

The Personal Preference

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to add parmesan cheese to marinara sauce is a matter of personal preference. There is no right or wrong answer, and it comes down to what you enjoy most. If you are unsure, experiment with both versions to determine which one you prefer.

The Impact on Taste

The addition of parmesan cheese to marinara sauce can have a significant impact on its taste. Parmesan cheese adds:

• A savory, salty richness
• Umami flavor
• A creamy texture
• A nutty aroma

The Pairing Considerations

If you choose to add parmesan cheese to marinara sauce, consider the following pairing tips:

• Use high-quality parmesan cheese
• Grate the cheese fresh
• Add the cheese sparingly
• Pair the sauce with dishes that can handle the strong flavor of parmesan cheese, such as pasta, meat, or vegetables

The Alternatives

If you are not a fan of parmesan cheese or want to try something different, there are several alternatives you can use to enhance the flavor of marinara sauce. These include:

• Grated pecorino Romano cheese
• Grated Asiago cheese
• Freshly chopped basil
• Dried oregano
• Red pepper flakes

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Is it traditional to add parmesan cheese to marinara sauce?
A: No, traditionally, marinara sauce does not include parmesan cheese.

Q: Why do some people add parmesan cheese to marinara sauce?
A: Parmesan cheese adds a savory, salty richness and umami flavor to the sauce.

Q: What are some alternatives to parmesan cheese for marinara sauce?
A: Grated pecorino Romano cheese, grated Asiago cheese, freshly chopped basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes.

Q: How much parmesan cheese should I add to marinara sauce?
A: Add the cheese sparingly to avoid overpowering the other flavors in the sauce.

Q: Can I add parmesan cheese to marinara sauce that has already been cooked?
A: Yes, you can add parmesan cheese to cooked marinara sauce, but be sure to remove the sauce from the heat first.