Five Counties Cheese vs Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese

Five Counties Cheese is a semi-firm cow-milk cheese from England, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is grainy, flaky and made from cow milk, originating in Italy.

What Is Five Counties Cheese?

Five Counties cheese, originating from Somerset, England, is a semi-firm cheese made from cow's milk. It is known for its layered appearance, featuring five different types of English cheeses stacked together. The flavor is buttery and mild, with a touch of saltiness, making it a pleasant choice for those who enjoy a balanced taste. Its aroma is subtle, adding to its approachable nature. This cheese is also referred to as Five Territories, Five Shires, or Saxonshire. It is often enjoyed on cheese boards or paired with crackers and fruits for a simple yet satisfying snack.

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 Five Counties Cheese and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?

• Origin: Five Counties Cheese (England), Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Italy)
• Texture: Five Counties Cheese (semi-firm), Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Grainy, flaky)
• Taste: Five Counties Cheese (buttery, mild, salty), Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Umami)

Side-by-Side Comparison

Taste Comparison: Does Five Counties Cheese Taste Like Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?

Five Counties Cheese reads as buttery, mild, salty, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese brings umami character. On the nose, Five Counties Cheese offers mild, contrasted with Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese's mild, milky.

Can You Substitute Five Counties Cheese for Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?

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

Which Is Better, Five Counties Cheese or Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Five Counties Cheese the same as Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?

No, they're distinct cheeses. Five Counties Cheese originates in England, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese comes from Italy.

Is Five Counties Cheese similar to Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?

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

Can I substitute Five Counties Cheese for Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?

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

Does Five Counties Cheese taste like Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?

Five Counties Cheese reads as buttery, mild, salty, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is umami. Aromas also diverge. Five Counties Cheese leans mild, and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is closer to mild, milky.

What is Five Counties Cheese made of?

Five Counties Cheese is made from cow milk. It originates in England.

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, Five Counties Cheese or Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?

It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Five Counties Cheese is semi-firm, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is grainy, flaky.