Fontal Cheese vs Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese
Fontal Cheese
Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese
Fontal Cheese is a cheese from Italy, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is grainy, flaky and made from cow milk, originating in Italy.
What Is Fontal Cheese?
Fontal is a semi-soft Italian cheese made from cow's milk. It has a creamy texture and a mild, somewhat sweet flavor, making it a popular choice for cooking and snacking. Fontal melts well, making it ideal for fondues, grilled cheese sandwiches, and pizza toppings.
What Is Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
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.
What's the Difference Between Fontal Cheese and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Fontal Cheese | Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Italy | Italy |
| Specific Origin | — | Emilia-Romagna Region |
| Milk Type | — | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | — | Raw |
| Texture | — | Grainy, flaky |
| Rind | — | Hard |
| Aging | — | 12 to 36 months |
| Taste | — | Umami |
Pairing Comparison
What works with each cheese — wines, foods, breads, and more.
| Fontal Cheese | Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pairings | — | Almonds, Amaro, Asparagus, Bresaola, Chicken, Clam Chowder, Cod, Madeira, Mushrooms, Pesto, Pistachios, Prosciutto, Roasted Vegetables, Sangiovese, Seaweed, Sweet Potato, Tomatoes |
| Other Good Pairings | — | 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 |
Which would you pick?
One click, anonymous — see what others chose.
Where to buy Fontal Cheese and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese
Fontal Cheese
Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese
Taste Comparison: Does Fontal Cheese Taste Like Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Fontal Cheese for Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
Fontal Cheese can stand in for Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Fontal Cheese or Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fontal Cheese the same as Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses.
Is Fontal Cheese similar to Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Fontal Cheese for Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Fontal Cheese taste like Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Fontal Cheese made of?
Fontal Cheese is made from milk. It originates in Italy.
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, Fontal Cheese or Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.
See full profiles: Fontal Cheese and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese.