Emmental de Savoie Cheese vs Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese
Emmental de Savoie Cheese is a firm and supple cow-milk cheese, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is grainy, flaky and made from cow milk, originating in Italy.
What Is Emmental de Savoie Cheese?
Emmental de Savoie is a French cheese from Savoie with EU protected geographical indication status. It belongs to the Emmental family of yellow, medium-hard Swiss-type cheeses known for the natural holes in their paste.
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 Emmental de Savoie Cheese and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
- Texture: Emmental de Savoie Cheese (Firm and supple), Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Grainy, flaky)
- Rind: Emmental de Savoie Cheese (Yellowish brown, without spots or blemishes), Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Hard)
- Taste: Emmental de Savoie Cheese (Clean, fruity taste), Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Umami)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Emmental de Savoie Cheese | Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | — | Italy |
| Specific Origin | Savoie Region, Including Specific Municipalities In The Departments Of Haute-Savoie, Savoie, Ain, And Isère. | Emilia-Romagna Region |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Raw | Raw |
| Texture | Firm and supple | Grainy, flaky |
| Rind | Yellowish brown, without spots or blemishes | Hard |
| Aging | — | 12 to 36 months |
| Taste | Clean, fruity taste | Umami |
Taste Comparison: Does Emmental de Savoie Cheese Taste Like Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
Emmental de Savoie Cheese reads as clean, fruity taste, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese brings umami character.
Can You Substitute Emmental de Savoie Cheese for Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
In most recipes, Emmental de Savoie Cheese and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over. Expect firm and supple bite and body where the recipe calls for grainy, flaky. Flavor-wise, Emmental de Savoie Cheese reads as clean, fruity taste while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese brings umami notes.
Which Is Better, Emmental de Savoie Cheese or Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a firm and supple cheese, go with Emmental de Savoie Cheese. For a grainy, flaky profile, Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is the better fit. Flavor-wise, Emmental de Savoie Cheese suits recipes that want clean, fruity taste notes, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese fits dishes calling for umami.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Emmental de Savoie Cheese the same as Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses.
Is Emmental de Savoie Cheese similar to Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.
Can I substitute Emmental de Savoie Cheese for Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in bite and mouthfeel.
Does Emmental de Savoie Cheese taste like Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
Emmental de Savoie Cheese reads as clean, fruity taste, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is umami.
What is Emmental de Savoie Cheese made of?
Emmental de Savoie Cheese is made from cow milk (raw).
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, Emmental de Savoie Cheese or Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Emmental de Savoie Cheese is firm and supple, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is grainy, flaky.