Austrian Alps cheese vs Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese
Austrian Alps cheese is a cow-milk cheese from Switzerland, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is grainy, flaky and made from cow milk, originating in Italy.
What Is Austrian Alps cheese?
Austrian Alps cheese, despite its name, is actually from Switzerland and is made from pasteurized cow's milk. This cheese is known for its nutty and spicy flavor, which offers a warm and inviting taste experience. The aroma is similarly aromatic, with nutty and spicy notes that complement its taste. It's a versatile cheese that can be enjoyed on its own or used to enhance various dishes. Its smooth texture makes it easy to slice or melt, adding a rich flavor to any meal. Whether paired with a glass of wine or used in cooking, Austrian Alps cheese brings a delicious twist to the table.
What Is Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
Parmigiano Reggiano is a hard, granular Italian cheese made from unpasteurised cow's milk and aged at least 12 months. Protected as a PDO across Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena and parts of Bologna and Mantua, it is known for its sharp, salty, deeply savoury taste.
What's the Difference Between Austrian Alps cheese and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
- Origin: Austrian Alps cheese (Switzerland), Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Italy)
- Milk treatment: Austrian Alps cheese (pasteurized), Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Raw)
- Taste: Austrian Alps cheese (nutty, spicy), Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Umami)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Austrian Alps cheese | Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Switzerland | Italy |
| Specific Origin | — | Emilia-Romagna Region |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized | Raw |
| Texture | — | Grainy, flaky |
| Rind | — | Hard |
| Aging | — | 12 to 36 months |
| Taste | Nutty, spicy | Umami |
Taste Comparison: Does Austrian Alps cheese Taste Like Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
Austrian Alps cheese reads as nutty, spicy, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese brings umami character. On the nose, Austrian Alps cheese offers aromatic, nutty, spicy, contrasted with Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese's mild, milky.
Can You Substitute Austrian Alps cheese for Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
In most recipes, Austrian Alps cheese and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over. Flavor-wise, Austrian Alps cheese reads as nutty, spicy while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese brings umami notes.
Which Is Better, Austrian Alps cheese or Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. Flavor-wise, Austrian Alps cheese suits recipes that want nutty, spicy notes, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese fits dishes calling for umami.
Which is your favorite?
One click, anonymous. See what others chose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Austrian Alps cheese the same as Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Austrian Alps cheese originates in Switzerland, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese comes from Italy.
Is Austrian Alps cheese similar to Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.
Can I substitute Austrian Alps cheese for Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Austrian Alps cheese taste like Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
Austrian Alps cheese reads as nutty, spicy, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is umami. Aromas also diverge. Austrian Alps cheese leans aromatic, nutty, spicy, and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is closer to mild, milky.
What is Austrian Alps cheese made of?
Austrian Alps cheese is made from cow milk (pasteurized). It originates in Switzerland.
What is Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese made of?
Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is made from cow milk (raw), using calf rennet. It's typically aged 12 to 36 months. It originates in Italy.
Which should I choose, Austrian Alps cheese or Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.