Parmesan cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. It’s commonly used in pasta dishes, salads, and soups.
But what about baking? Is Parmesan cheese good for baking? Let’s explore.
What is Parmesan Cheese?
Parmesan cheese, also known as Parmigiano-Reggiano, is a hard, granular cheese that originated in Italy. It’s made from cow’s milk and aged for at least 12 months. Parmesan cheese has a nutty and slightly sweet taste and is often grated or shredded over dishes.
Using Parmesan Cheese in Baking
Parmesan cheese can be used in baking to add flavor and texture to various dishes. It’s commonly used in savory baked goods such as bread, crackers, and biscuits.
When using Parmesan cheese in baking, it’s important to use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-packaged grated cheese. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese has a stronger flavor and better texture.
Parmesan cheese can also be used as a topping for baked dishes such as casseroles and gratins. The cheesy crust adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
Recipes Using Parmesan Cheese in Baking
Here are some delicious recipes that use Parmesan cheese in baking:
Parmesan Garlic Knots
- 1 pound pizza dough
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Cut the pizza dough into small pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each ball of dough into the garlic mixture and tie into a knot.
- Place the knots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Mix together the flour, paprika, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
- In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
- In a third shallow dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Dip each chicken breast into the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and finally coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Pour melted butter over the chicken breasts.
< li>Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown. li >
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, Parmesan cheese is an excellent ingredient to use in baking. It adds flavor and texture to various dishes such as breads, crackers, biscuits, casseroles and gratins.
When using Parmesan cheese in baking always use freshly grated cheese for best results. So, next time you’re baking, consider using Parmesan cheese to add some delicious flavor and texture to your dishes.