Grated Parmesan cheese is a popular ingredient in many dishes, from pasta to pizza to salads. It adds a rich, nutty flavor and a creamy texture that elevates any dish to the next level. But with so many brands of grated Parmesan cheese available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which one is the best.
What Makes Grated Parmesan Cheese So Special?
Parmesan cheese is a hard Italian cheese made from cow’s milk. It is aged for up to two years, which gives it its distinctive flavor and texture. It is commonly used in Italian cuisine as a topping for pasta dishes or as an ingredient in soups and sauces.
Grated Parmesan cheese is simply Parmesan cheese that has been finely shredded. It has a powdery texture that makes it easy to sprinkle over food or mix into sauces.
The Contenders
There are several brands of grated Parmesan cheese available in Supermarkets today. Here are some of the most popular ones:
- Kraft
- BelGioioso
- Parmigiano-Reggiano
- Trader Joe’s
- Sargento
- Gallo Salame
Kraft Parmesan Cheese
Kraft is one of the most well-known brands of grated Parmesan cheese. Its product claims to be made with 100% real Parmesan cheese and contains no fillers or preservatives.
However, some customers have reported a lack of flavor compared to other brands, and there have been concerns about the use of cellulose (a plant fiber) as an anti-caking agent.
BelGioioso Parmesan Cheese
BelGioioso is another popular brand that produces high-quality Parmesan cheese. Its product is made from fresh milk and aged for 10 months, producing a rich, nutty flavor.
Customers have praised the brand for its authentic taste and texture, but it can be more expensive than other brands.
Parmigiano-Reggiano Parmesan Cheese
Parmigiano-Reggiano is considered by many to be the gold standard for Parmesan cheese. It is produced in Italy and has been aged for at least 12 months, giving it a complex flavor profile.
While it can be more expensive than other brands, many customers believe that the quality justifies the price.
Trader Joe’s Parmesan Cheese
Trader Joe’s is known for its high-quality products at affordable prices. Its grated Parmesan cheese is no exception – it contains no fillers or preservatives and has a rich, nutty flavor that customers love.
However, some customers have reported that the texture is too fine and powdery compared to other brands.
Sargento Parmesan Cheese
Sargento is another popular brand of grated Parmesan cheese. Its product claims to be made with 100% real cheese and contains no artificial flavors or preservatives.
Customers have praised its authentic taste and texture, but some have reported inconsistencies in quality between different batches.
Gallo Salame Parmesan Cheese
Gallo Salame may not be as well-known as some of the other brands on this list, but its grated Parmesan cheese has received high praise from customers. It contains no fillers or preservatives and has a nutty, flavorful taste.
However, it can be difficult to find in Supermarkets outside of California.
The Verdict
Ultimately, the best grated Parmesan cheese comes down to personal preference. If you’re looking for a high-quality product with an authentic taste and texture, Parmigiano-Reggiano is a safe bet. If you’re on a budget, Trader Joe’s or Sargento may be more your speed.
No matter which brand you choose, be sure to read the label carefully and look for products that contain 100% real Parmesan cheese with no fillers or preservatives. And don’t be afraid to experiment – try different brands and see which one suits your tastes best.