Italian cheese is renowned for its rich flavors and diverse textures, playing a crucial role in Italian cuisine. From the creamy decadence of burrata to the sharp tang of Pecorino Romano, each cheese brings its unique character to the table. Let's delve into some of Italy's most famous cheeses, their production processes, and how to incorporate them into your dishes.
Parmigiano-Reggiano
Known as the "King of Cheeses," Parmigiano-Reggiano is a hard Italian cheese with a granular texture and a robust, nutty flavor. Parmigiano-Reggiano is produced in specific regions of Italy, including Parma and Reggio Emilia, and aged for at least 12 months. This cheese is often used for grating over pasta or risotto or enjoying in chunks with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or can even be made into a Parmigiano-Reggiano sauce.
Burrata
Burrata cheese is a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. The outer shell is solid mozzarella, and the inside contains stracciatella and cream, making it incredibly creamy and rich. Truffle burrata adds an earthy flavor, enhancing its luxurious texture. Enjoy burrata with fresh tomatoes, basil, and a splash of olive oil for a simple yet indulgent appetizer.
Pecorino Romano
Pecorino Romano is a hard, salty cheese made from sheep's milk. It is one of Italy's oldest cheeses, with origins dating back to ancient Rome. The sharp, tangy flavor of Pecorino Romano is perfect for grating over pasta dishes like Cacio e Pepe or Carbonara. Romano Pecorino and Pecorinos, in general, add a bold kick to any dish.
Asiago
Asiago cheese comes in two main varieties: fresh (Asiago Pressato) and aged (Asiago d'Allevo). Fresh Asiago has a smooth texture and a mild flavor, while aged Asiago is harder and more crumbly, with a stronger, sharper taste. Shredded Parmesan-Asiago cheese combines the best of both worlds, making it an excellent topping for salads and pasta.
Provolone
Provolone cheese is a semi-hard cheese with a smooth texture and a sharp, tangy flavor. Sharp provolone is often used in sandwiches and Italian antipasti platters. Shredded provolone cheese melts beautifully, making it ideal for pizzas and casseroles.
Other Notable Cheeses
Caciocavallo Cheese: A stretched-curd cheese similar to provolone, often used in southern Italian dishes.
Montasio Cheese: A semi-hard cheese from the Friuli region, excellent for melting.
Scamorza Cheese: A smoked cheese similar to mozzarella, great for grilling.
Robiola Cheese: A creamy, soft cheese from Piedmont, perfect for spreading on bread.
La Tur Cheese: A delicate, soft-ripened cheese with a rich, creamy interior.
Incorporating Italian Cheese into Your Dishes
Italian cheeses are incredibly versatile and can enhance a wide range of dishes. Use shredded Parmesan-Asiago cheese in your pasta for a complex flavor, or melt sharp provolone over a sandwich for a tangy bite. Incorporate Taleggio into a risotto for a creamy, luxurious texture, or add burrata to a salad for a touch of decadence. Whether you're enjoying a cheese platter or cooking a classic Italian dish, these cheeses bring a taste of Italy to your table.