Derby Cheese vs Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese

Derby Cheese

Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese

In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Derby Cheese and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese, including:

  • "What is the difference between Derby Cheese and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?"
  • "Is Derby Cheese and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese the same?"
  • "How does Derby Cheese compare to Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese cheese?"
  • "How does the taste of Derby Cheese compare to Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?"
  • "Is Derby Cheese or Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese better?"

Derby Cheese Overview

Derby cheese originates from Derbyshire, England, and is made from cow's milk. It is a semi-firm, ivory-colored cheese that is known for its buttery and mild flavor, with a hint of sweetness. The aroma is gentle, making it an approachable choice for many cheese enthusiasts. Derby is often compared to Cheddar, but it is usually softer and more moist. It is traditionally used in sandwiches or melted over dishes, but it can also be enjoyed on its own as a snack.

Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese Overview

Parmigiano Reggiano is an iconic Italian cheese produced in specific regions of Italy, including Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, and parts of Mantua and Bologna. It is made from raw cow's milk and aged at least 12 months, developing a deep, complex flavor that's slightly nutty and salty. Parmigiano Reggiano is essential in Italian cooking and as a finishing cheese.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Derby Cheese comes from England and United Kingdom. Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese originated from Italy.

Certification

Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. Derby is not a protected cheese. Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese has a PDO (1996).

Milk Type and Treatment

Derby Cheese is made with cow milk. Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw.

Composition and Texture

Derby's texture can be described as "semi-firm, artisan". Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese has a fat content of minimum 32%. Parmigiano Reggiano's texture can be described as "grainy, flaky".

Taste and Aroma

Derby Cheese has a buttery, mild, sweet taste. Derby's aroma can be described as "mild". Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese has a umami taste. Parmigiano Reggiano's aroma can be described as "mild, milky".

Appearance and Aging

Derby Cheese's appearance is colored ivory . Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese has a color of straw or light straw , comes in cylindrical, slightly convex sides and has an aging period of 12 to 36 months .

Rind and Rennet Type

Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese's rind is described as hard , with calf rennet.

Ranking

Derby is ranked #470 out of 996 types based on community views. Parmigiano Reggiano is ranked #72 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

Derby Parmigiano Reggiano
Best Pairings No pairings listed. Almonds, Amaro, Asparagus, Bresaola, Chicken, Clam Chowder, Cod, Madeira, Mushrooms, Pesto, Pistachios, Prosciutto, Roasted Vegetables, Sangiovese, Seaweed, Sweet Potato, Tomatoes
Other Good Pairings No additional pairings listed. Avocado, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cava, Champagne, Dijon Mustard, Dirty Martini, Dried Figs, Dried Fruit, Ginger, Honey, Honeycomb, Macaroni and Cheese, Malbec, Merlot, Muscat, Pecans, Prosecco, Pumpkin, Salami, Salmon, Scotch, Steak, Tequila

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Derby and Parmigiano Reggiano pages.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Derby Cheese Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese
Country of Origin England And United Kingdom Italy
Specific Origin Derbyshire Emilia-Romagna Region
Certification Not Specified PDO (1996)
Milk Type Cow's milk Cow's milk
Milk Treatment Not Specified Raw
Fat Content Not Specified Minimum 32%
Rind Not Specified Hard
Texture Semi-firm, artisan Grainy, flaky
Taste Buttery, mild, sweet Umami
Aroma Mild Mild, Milky
Colors Ivory Straw or light straw
Forms Not Specified Cylindrical, slightly convex sides
Age Not Specified 12 to 36 months
Rennet Type Not Specified Calf rennet

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a semi-firm, artisan cheese, go for Derby. But if you enjoy a grainy, flaky consistency, Parmigiano Reggiano might be the better pick. Derby has a buttery, mild, sweet taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Parmigiano Reggiano offers a umami profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Derby Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese to Other Cheeses

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