Dovedale cheese vs Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese
Dovedale cheese
Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese
Dovedale cheese is a soft cow-milk cheese, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is grainy, flaky and made from cow milk, originating in Italy.
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What Is Dovedale cheese?
Dovedale, sold as Dovedale Blue, is a soft blue cheese made from full fat cow's milk near the Dovedale valley in the Peak District. It holds PDO status and is dipped in brine instead of dry-salted, which is rare for a British cheese.
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 Dovedale cheese and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
- Milk treatment: Dovedale cheese (Pasteurized), Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Raw)
- Texture: Dovedale cheese (Soft), Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Grainy, flaky)
- Taste: Dovedale cheese (mild blue), Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Umami)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Dovedale cheese | Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | — | Italy |
| Specific Origin | Within Fifty Miles Of Dovedale, England | Emilia-Romagna Region |
| Milk Type | Cow | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Pasteurized | Raw |
| Texture | Soft | Grainy, flaky |
| Rind | — | Hard |
| Aging | — | 12 to 36 months |
| Taste | Mild blue | Umami |
Taste Comparison: Does Dovedale cheese Taste Like Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
Dovedale cheese reads as mild blue, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese brings umami character. More specifically, Dovedale cheese shows mild and creamy, with a continental character from brine dipping, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese leans toward lactic (fermented milk), sweet (fresh cream, melted butter), fruity or citrusy (apricot, banana, dried fruits, lemon, pineapple), balanced by savory nutty (hazelnut, walnut) and meaty.
Can You Substitute Dovedale cheese for Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
In most recipes, Dovedale 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, Dovedale cheese reads as mild blue while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese brings umami notes.
Which Is Better, Dovedale 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 Dovedale cheese. For a grainy, flaky profile, Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is the better fit. Flavor-wise, Dovedale cheese suits recipes that want mild blue notes, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese fits dishes calling for umami.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dovedale cheese the same as Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses.
Is Dovedale cheese similar to Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.
Can I substitute Dovedale cheese for Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in bite and mouthfeel.
Does Dovedale cheese taste like Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
Dovedale cheese reads as mild blue, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is umami.
What is Dovedale cheese made of?
Dovedale cheese is made from cow milk (pasteurized).
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, Dovedale cheese or Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Dovedale cheese is soft, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is grainy, flaky.