Fontal Cheese vs Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese
Fontal Cheese
Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese
Fontal Cheese is a cow-milk cheese from Italy, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is grainy, flaky and made from cow milk, originating in Italy.
What Is Fontal Cheese?
Fontal is one of the names that grew out of fontina, the cow's milk cheese first produced in Italy. Cheeses under derivative names like fontal are made in other parts of Italy and in Denmark, Sweden, Quebec, France, Argentina, and the United States.
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 Fontal Cheese and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Fontal Cheese | Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Italy | Italy |
| Specific Origin | Italy | Emilia-Romagna Region |
| Milk Type | Cow | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | — | Raw |
| Texture | — | Grainy, flaky |
| Rind | — | Hard |
| Aging | — | 12 to 36 months |
| Taste | — | Umami |
Taste Comparison: Does Fontal Cheese Taste Like Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Fontal Cheese for Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
In most recipes, Fontal Cheese and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over.
Which Is Better, Fontal Cheese or Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want.
Which is your favorite?
One click, anonymous. See what others chose.
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?
Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.
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 cow 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.