Are you a cheese lover who enjoys exploring the world of artisanal cheeses? If so, you might have come across Piave cheese and wondered if it is a type of Parmesan cheese. While both are Italian hard cheeses, they have some distinct differences that set them apart.
What is Piave Cheese?
Piave cheese is a cow’s milk cheese that originated in the Piave River valley in northern Italy. It is named after the river that flows through the Veneto region and is produced in the provinces of Belluno, Padua, Treviso, and Venice.
Piave cheese has a pale yellow color and a semi-hard texture. It has a sweet and nutty flavor with hints of pineapple and hazelnut. The aging process for Piave cheese varies from 20 days to more than two years.
What is Parmesan Cheese?
Parmesan cheese or Parmigiano-Reggiano is also an Italian hard cheese made from cow’s milk. It originates from the regions of Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, Bologna, and Mantua in Italy. Parmigiano-Reggiano has a distinct granular texture with a fruity and nutty flavor.
The aging process for Parmigiano-Reggiano is typically 18 months to two years or longer, which gives it its signature sharpness.
What Are the Differences Between Piave Cheese and Parmesan Cheese?
While both Piave and Parmesan cheeses are Italian hard cheeses made from cow’s milk, there are some key differences between them.
- Aging: Piave can be aged for less than one year while Parmesan must be aged for at least one year to be considered authentic.
- Flavor: Piave has a sweeter and nuttier flavor with hints of pineapple, while Parmesan has a sharper and nuttier taste.
- Texture: Piave has a semi-hard texture, while Parmesan is known for its granular texture.
- Region: Piave is produced in the Veneto region of Italy, while Parmesan is made in several regions including Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, Bologna, and Mantua.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, while both Piave cheese and Parmesan cheese are delicious Italian hard cheeses with some similarities in terms of taste and texture, they are different cheeses with unique characteristics. So the next time you’re looking for an artisanal cheese to enjoy, consider trying both Piave and Parmesan to appreciate their distinct flavors.
Remember when it comes to cheese there’s no right or wrong answer. It all depends on your personal preference. So go ahead and savor the flavors!