The Magic of Parmigiano Reggiano: Elevating Pizzas and Beyond
When it comes to cheese, few varieties hold the global acclaim and culinary versatility of Parmigiano Reggiano. Known as the “King of Cheeses,” this Italian treasure boasts a nutty, tangy flavour and a crumbly yet creamy texture that can transform any dish into a gourmet delight. From salads to charcuterie boards, grilled meats to fresh pasta, and, of course, pizza, Parmigiano Reggiano is a must-have for food enthusiasts everywhere.
A Star Ingredient for Pizzas
One of our favorite ways to enjoy Parmigiano Reggiano is on pizza. While mozzarella provides the stretchy, gooey base we all love, Parmigiano Reggiano adds an extra layer of complexity and flavour. The key is to grate it over your pizza after it comes out of the oven. This preserves its delicate, salty tang and ensures every bite is a burst of umami goodness.
At our deli, we especially love pairing it with our Prosciutto Pizza and Meat Lovers’ Pizza. The savoury meats are perfectly complemented by the sharp, nutty notes of freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano. It’s the final touch that takes these pizzas from delicious to divine.
What Makes Parmigiano Reggiano So Special?
Not all Parmigiano Reggiano is created equal. The cheese is traditionally crafted in a specific region of Italy—Emilia-Romagna—and must adhere to strict production standards to earn its name. Interesting fact - the regional bank accepts whole wheels of Parmigiano Reggiano as collateral for small-business loans that they keep in giant chilled warehouses.
Its flavour and texture vary depending on its age:
- Young (12-18 months): Mild, creamy, and slightly sweet.
- Aged (24-36 months): Nutty, tangy, and crumbly with a robust flavour.
- Extra-aged (40+ months): Intensely savoury with crunchy protein crystals for a delightful texture.
Due to its popularity, Parmigiano Reggiano is also one of the most counterfeited cheeses in the world. Imitations may look similar but lack the authentic depth of flavour that comes from proper aging and traditional methods. Always look for the Parmigiano Reggiano stamp to ensure you’re getting the real deal.
A 40kg Celebration of Cheese
Recently, our deli imported a 40kg wheel of top-quality Parmigiano Reggiano, and we marked the occasion with a traditional cracking ceremony. If you’ve never witnessed this before, it’s a truly sensory experience—the sight of the wheel splitting open, the rich aroma filling the air, and the first taste of the freshly cracked cheese. The flavour? Absolutely incredible.
Since then, we’ve been enjoying this extraordinary cheese in countless ways. Beyond pizzas, we sprinkle it over roasted vegetables, pasta, and salads, or pair it with cured meats on a charcuterie board. Grilled or served fresh, it adds a depth of flavour that’s hard to beat.
Visit Us for a Tasting
Curious about how Parmigiano Reggiano can elevate your dishes? Come visit us at our deli shop and pizza oven showroom in Pukekohe, Auckland. We’d love to share our passion for this remarkable cheese and let you sample its magic for yourself. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just starting your culinary journey, Parmigiano Reggiano is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Embrace the King of Cheeses—your taste buds will thank you!