If you’re a cheese lover, then you might have heard of Fontinella cheese. This cheese is often compared to Parmesan cheese due to their similar appearance and texture.
But are they really the same? Let’s take a closer look.
What is Fontinella Cheese?
Fontinella cheese is a semi-hard, Italian-style cheese that’s made from cow’s milk. It’s known for its nutty and slightly sweet flavor, which makes it a popular ingredient in various dishes like pizzas, pasta, and salads. The cheese has a pale yellow color with small holes throughout its body.
What is Parmesan Cheese?
Parmesan cheese, also known as Parmigiano-Reggiano, is a hard Italian cheese that’s made from cow’s milk as well. It has a sharp and salty taste with a granular texture that crumbles easily. Parmesan cheese is commonly used in grated form as a topping for pasta dishes or mixed with olive oil and served with bread.
How are they different?
Although Fontinella and Parmesan cheeses share some similarities, there are also some notable differences between them. First of all, Parmesan cheese has a much stronger flavor compared to Fontinella cheese. Additionally, the texture of Parmesan is much harder and grainier than Fontinella.
Another key difference between these two cheeses lies in their production process. Parmesan cheese is aged for at least 12 months before it can be sold while Fontinella doesn’t go through such an extended aging process.
Can They Be Used Interchangeably?
While these two cheeses have some differences in taste and texture, they can still be used interchangeably in some recipes. For example, if you’re making lasagna or pizza, you can use either Fontinella or Parmesan depending on your personal preference.
However, if you’re looking to make authentic Italian dishes, it’s important to use the right cheese. For instance, if you’re making risotto or spaghetti carbonara, Parmesan is the better choice as it has a stronger flavor that can stand up to other ingredients.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Fontinella and Parmesan cheeses might look similar, but they have distinct differences in flavor, texture, and production process. While they can be used interchangeably in some recipes, it’s crucial to use the right cheese if you want an authentic Italian taste. So next time you’re at the grocery store wondering which cheese to buy, consider these differences before making your decision.