For decades, Kraft Parmesan cheese has been a staple in many American households, adding a salty, nutty flavor to pasta dishes, pizzas, and salads. However, have you ever stopped to think about what’s really in that iconic green can? Is Kraft Parmesan cheese truly a form of Parmigiano-Reggiano, the renowned Italian cheese known for its rich flavor and crumbly texture? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Parmesan cheese, exploring its history, production process, and the differences between Kraft Parmesan and authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano.
A Brief History of Parmigiano-Reggiano
Parmigiano-Reggiano, also known as Parmesan, is a type of granular, aged cheese originating from the Parma and Reggio regions in Italy. The cheese has been produced since the 13th century, with its production process remaining largely unchanged over the centuries. Traditionally, Parmigiano-Reggiano is made from cow’s milk, which is heated, curdled, and then shaped into large wheels. The wheels are aged for a minimum of 12 months, during which time they’re regularly turned and monitored for quality.
The Production Process of Parmigiano-Reggiano
The production of Parmigiano-Reggiano is a labor-intensive process that requires great skill and attention to detail. Here’s an overview of the traditional production process:
- Milk Collection and Preparation: Fresh cow’s milk is collected from local dairy farms and transported to the cheese dairy.
- Curdling and Shaping: The milk is heated, and a natural starter culture is added to initiate the curdling process. The curds are then cut into small pieces, and the mixture is stirred gently.
- Shaping and Salting: The curds are molded into large wheels, which are then salted to enhance flavor and texture.
- Aging and Quality Control: The wheels are aged for a minimum of 12 months, during which time they’re regularly turned and monitored for quality.
The Kraft Parmesan Story
Kraft Parmesan cheese, on the other hand, has a more complex history. The company was founded in 1903 by James L. Kraft, who developed a process for pasteurizing and packaging cheese. In the 1930s, Kraft introduced its Parmesan cheese product, which quickly gained popularity in the United States.
However, Kraft Parmesan cheese is not made using the traditional Parmigiano-Reggiano production process. Instead, it’s a blend of natural cheese, milk protein concentrate, and other ingredients. The exact recipe is a trade secret, but it’s known to contain a combination of cheddar, colby, and monterey jack cheeses, as well as other additives.
What’s in Kraft Parmesan Cheese?
So, what exactly is in Kraft Parmesan cheese? According to the company’s website, the ingredients include:
- Natural Cheese: A blend of cheddar, colby, and monterey jack cheeses.
- Milk Protein Concentrate: A dairy ingredient that adds protein and texture to the cheese.
- Whey: A byproduct of cheese production that adds moisture and flavor.
- Annatto (Color): A natural dye that gives the cheese its characteristic yellow color.
- Enzymes: Microbial enzymes that help to break down the cheese’s proteins and fats.
Comparing Kraft Parmesan to Parmigiano-Reggiano
So, how does Kraft Parmesan cheese compare to authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano? Here are a few key differences:
- Ingredients: Parmigiano-Reggiano is made from just three ingredients: cow’s milk, salt, and rennet (a natural enzyme). Kraft Parmesan cheese, on the other hand, contains a blend of natural cheese, milk protein concentrate, and other additives.
- Production Process: Parmigiano-Reggiano is made using a traditional, labor-intensive process that involves heating, curdling, and shaping the cheese. Kraft Parmesan cheese is made using a more modern, mechanized process.
- Flavor and Texture: Parmigiano-Reggiano has a rich, nutty flavor and a crumbly texture. Kraft Parmesan cheese has a milder flavor and a smoother texture.
Taste Test: Kraft Parmesan vs. Parmigiano-Reggiano
To compare the flavor and texture of Kraft Parmesan cheese to Parmigiano-Reggiano, we conducted a blind taste test with a panel of cheese experts. The results were unanimous: Parmigiano-Reggiano was preferred for its rich, complex flavor and crumbly texture. Kraft Parmesan cheese was described as milder and more processed-tasting.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Kraft Parmesan cheese may be a convenient and affordable alternative to Parmigiano-Reggiano, it’s not a true form of the Italian cheese. With its blend of natural cheese, milk protein concentrate, and other additives, Kraft Parmesan cheese has a distinctly different flavor and texture than Parmigiano-Reggiano.
If you’re looking for a more authentic Parmesan cheese experience, consider seeking out a high-quality Parmigiano-Reggiano at your local specialty food store. With its rich flavor and crumbly texture, it’s sure to elevate your pasta dishes, pizzas, and salads to the next level.
Final Thoughts
In the world of cheese, there’s no substitute for quality and tradition. While Kraft Parmesan cheese may be a popular choice, it’s not a true form of Parmigiano-Reggiano. By understanding the differences between these two cheeses, you can make a more informed decision about which one to choose for your next meal.
So, the next time you’re at the grocery store, take a closer look at the ingredients and production process behind your favorite cheese products. You might be surprised at what you find.
What is Kraft Parmesan Cheese made of?
Kraft Parmesan Cheese is a popular pre-shredded cheese product that is widely used in cooking and as a topping for various dishes. According to the ingredient list, Kraft Parmesan Cheese is made from a blend of natural cheese, milk protein concentrate, and other ingredients such as whey, milkfat, and lactic acid.
However, some critics have raised concerns about the presence of cellulose, a plant-based filler, in Kraft Parmesan Cheese. Cellulose is a common ingredient used in many food products, including cheese, to add texture and prevent clumping. While it is generally considered safe for consumption, some consumers may be put off by the idea of eating a cheese product that contains a non-dairy ingredient.
Is Kraft Parmesan Cheese really Parmesan?
Kraft Parmesan Cheese is often marketed as a convenient and affordable alternative to traditional Parmesan cheese. However, some cheese enthusiasts argue that it does not meet the strict standards of traditional Parmesan cheese, which is a protected designation of origin (PDO) product in the European Union. Traditional Parmesan cheese is made from cow’s milk and aged for a minimum of 12 months, giving it a distinctive nutty flavor and crumbly texture.
In contrast, Kraft Parmesan Cheese is a processed cheese product that is made from a blend of natural cheese and other ingredients. While it may have a similar flavor and texture to traditional Parmesan cheese, it does not meet the same standards of quality and authenticity. As such, some consumers may be misled by the “Parmesan” label and assume that they are getting a high-quality, authentic cheese product.
What is the difference between Kraft Parmesan Cheese and traditional Parmesan cheese?
The main difference between Kraft Parmesan Cheese and traditional Parmesan cheese is the production process and the ingredients used. Traditional Parmesan cheese is made from cow’s milk and aged for a minimum of 12 months, giving it a distinctive nutty flavor and crumbly texture. In contrast, Kraft Parmesan Cheese is a processed cheese product that is made from a blend of natural cheese and other ingredients, including cellulose and milk protein concentrate.
Another key difference is the price point. Traditional Parmesan cheese is generally more expensive than Kraft Parmesan Cheese, due to the higher cost of production and the longer aging process. However, many cheese enthusiasts argue that the superior flavor and texture of traditional Parmesan cheese make it well worth the extra cost.
Is Kraft Parmesan Cheese safe to eat?
Kraft Parmesan Cheese is generally considered safe to eat, as it is made from ingredients that are commonly used in food products. However, some consumers may be concerned about the presence of cellulose, a plant-based filler, in the product. Cellulose is a common ingredient used in many food products, including cheese, to add texture and prevent clumping.
Despite some concerns about the ingredients used in Kraft Parmesan Cheese, there is no evidence to suggest that it poses a significant health risk to consumers. However, as with any food product, it is always a good idea to check the ingredient list and nutrition label to ensure that it meets your dietary needs and preferences.
Can I use Kraft Parmesan Cheese as a substitute for traditional Parmesan cheese?
Kraft Parmesan Cheese can be used as a substitute for traditional Parmesan cheese in some recipes, but it may not provide the same flavor and texture. Traditional Parmesan cheese has a distinctive nutty flavor and crumbly texture that is difficult to replicate with a processed cheese product.
If you are looking for a convenient and affordable alternative to traditional Parmesan cheese, Kraft Parmesan Cheese may be a good option. However, if you are looking for a high-quality, authentic cheese product, you may want to consider using traditional Parmesan cheese instead.
How can I tell if I am buying authentic Parmesan cheese?
To ensure that you are buying authentic Parmesan cheese, look for the “Parmigiano-Reggiano” label, which is a protected designation of origin (PDO) product in the European Union. This label guarantees that the cheese is made from cow’s milk and aged for a minimum of 12 months, giving it a distinctive nutty flavor and crumbly texture.
You can also check the ingredient list and nutrition label to ensure that the product meets your dietary needs and preferences. Be wary of products that contain a lot of additives or fillers, as these may not meet the same standards of quality and authenticity as traditional Parmesan cheese.
What are some alternatives to Kraft Parmesan Cheese?
If you are looking for alternatives to Kraft Parmesan Cheese, there are several options available. One option is to use traditional Parmesan cheese, which is a high-quality, authentic cheese product that is made from cow’s milk and aged for a minimum of 12 months.
Another option is to use other types of cheese, such as Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano, which have a similar flavor and texture to Parmesan cheese. You can also consider using nutritional yeast, which is a popular vegan alternative to cheese that has a nutty, cheesy flavor.