Guide for Cheese Lovers: Choosing and Preserving Parmesan Cheese, Parmigiano Reggiano
Parmigiano Reggiano, a beloved Italian cheese, is not only a staple in kitchens worldwide but also offers a host of health benefits and a unique flavor profile.
When stored correctly, a whole piece of Parmigiano Reggiano can last for several months. To maintain its freshness, it should be wrapped in wax paper or aluminum foil. If the cheese becomes dry, wrap it in a damp cloth and then in paper before returning it to the refrigerator. The vegetable compartment of a refrigerator, with its cool and humid environment, is an ideal place for storing Parmigiano Reggiano.
Beyond its protein, vitamins, and minerals content, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese offers several specific health benefits. Due to its long aging process, the proteins in Parmigiano Reggiano are broken down into smaller peptides, making them easier to digest and absorb, which benefits muscle repair and maintenance.
The cheese delivers a potent combination of calcium, phosphorus, zinc, and vitamin K, all critical for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Moreover, the aging process eliminates almost all lactose, making it suitable for people with lactose intolerance.
Parmigiano Reggiano contains short- and medium-chain fatty acids that are easier to metabolize and less likely to be stored as fat, potentially aiding appetite control and weight management. It is also rich in the amino acid tyrosine, which supports dopamine production, crucial for motivation, focus, and pleasure. The presence of vitamin B12 and calcium may aid nerve signaling, brain repair, and mental clarity, helping reduce brain fog especially in older adults.
Peptides formed during aging may lower blood pressure and reduce inflammation in blood vessels, contributing to cardiovascular health. Moreover, the cheese contains natural fibers that help regulate digestion.
In terms of taste, a 12-month aged Parmigiano Reggiano is more delicate and milky, while a 24-month cheese is full-bodied with more defined flavors. A 36-month aged Parmigiano Reggiano offers superior complexity in flavor. Once cut into, Parmigiano Reggiano should be consumed within a couple of weeks to enjoy it at its best.
However, it's important to note that Parmigiano Reggiano demands a discerning palate to appreciate its taste and ensure authentic, high-quality cheese. Avoid using plastic wrap for storing Parmigiano Reggiano as it can condense moisture and promote mold.
In conclusion, Parmigiano Reggiano is not only nutrient-dense but also provides functional bioactive compounds that may support bone density, cognitive function, cardiovascular health, digestion, and metabolic efficiency beyond the basic nutritional profile.
This Italian cheese can be an excellent addition to your health-and-wellness routine, as it offers multiple health benefits due to its unique aging process. In the realm of food-and-drink and lifestyle, using Parmigiano Reggiano in your cooking can contribute to enhanced flavor profiles and potential health benefits.
