Barberey Cheese vs Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese

Barberey Cheese is a soft cow-milk cheese from France, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is grainy, flaky and made from cow milk, originating in Italy.

What Is Barberey Cheese?

Barberey is a French cheese originating from Troyes in the Aube region. Made from skimmed cow's milk, it has a fat content ranging between 20-30%, resulting in a soft texture. The cheese offers a pungent and woody flavor profile, while its aroma remains mild. It features a natural rind, which contributes to its overall character. Also known as ash trojan or cheese Troyes, Barberey is a distinct choice for those who appreciate stronger flavors in their cheese selection.

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 Barberey Cheese and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?

• Origin: Barberey Cheese (France), Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Italy)
• Milk treatment: Barberey Cheese (skimmed), Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Raw)
• Texture: Barberey Cheese (soft), Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Grainy, flaky)
• Rind: Barberey Cheese (natural), Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Hard)
• Taste: Barberey Cheese (pungent, woody), Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Umami)

Side-by-Side Comparison

Taste Comparison: Does Barberey Cheese Taste Like Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?

Barberey Cheese reads as pungent, woody, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese brings umami character. On the nose, Barberey Cheese offers mild, contrasted with Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese's mild, milky.

Can You Substitute Barberey Cheese for Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?

In most recipes, Barberey Cheese and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over. Expect soft bite and body where the recipe calls for grainy, flaky. Flavor-wise, Barberey Cheese reads as pungent, woody while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese brings umami notes.

Which Is Better, Barberey Cheese or Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?

There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a soft cheese, go with Barberey Cheese. For a grainy, flaky profile, Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is the better fit. Flavor-wise, Barberey Cheese suits recipes that want pungent, woody notes, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese fits dishes calling for umami.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Barberey Cheese the same as Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?

No, they're distinct cheeses. Barberey Cheese originates in France, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese comes from Italy.

Is Barberey Cheese similar to Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?

Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.

Can I substitute Barberey Cheese for Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?

You can, but expect a shift in bite and mouthfeel.

Does Barberey Cheese taste like Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?

Barberey Cheese reads as pungent, woody, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is umami. Aromas also diverge. Barberey Cheese leans mild, and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is closer to mild, milky.

What is Barberey Cheese made of?

Barberey Cheese is made from cow milk (skimmed). It originates in France.

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, Barberey Cheese or Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?

It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Barberey Cheese is soft, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is grainy, flaky.