Glarner Alpkäse Cheese vs Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese
Glarner Alpkäse Cheese
Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese
Glarner Alpkäse Cheese is a cow-milk cheese, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is grainy, flaky and made from cow milk, originating in Italy.
What Is Glarner Alpkäse Cheese?
Glarner Alpkäse is a Swiss raw cow's milk cheese made on the alpine pastures of Glarus during the summer grazing season. The wheels have no holes and reach the market in mild, spicy and sharp grades. It has held AOP protection since 2014.
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 Glarner Alpkäse Cheese and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
- Rind: Glarner Alpkäse Cheese (natural, formed in a salt bath), Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Hard)
- Taste: Glarner Alpkäse Cheese (mild when young, more pungent with longer ripening), Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Umami)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Glarner Alpkäse Cheese | Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | — | Italy |
| Specific Origin | Glarus, Switzerland | Emilia-Romagna Region |
| Milk Type | Cow | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Raw | Raw |
| Texture | — | Grainy, flaky |
| Rind | Natural, formed in a salt bath | Hard |
| Aging | — | 12 to 36 months |
| Taste | Mild when young, more pungent with longer ripening | Umami |
Taste Comparison: Does Glarner Alpkäse Cheese Taste Like Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
Glarner Alpkäse Cheese reads as mild when young, more pungent with longer ripening, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese brings umami character.
Can You Substitute Glarner Alpkäse Cheese for Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
In most recipes, Glarner Alpkäse Cheese and Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over. Flavor-wise, Glarner Alpkäse Cheese reads as mild when young, more pungent with longer ripening while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese brings umami notes.
Which Is Better, Glarner Alpkäse Cheese or Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. Flavor-wise, Glarner Alpkäse Cheese suits recipes that want mild when young, more pungent with longer ripening notes, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese fits dishes calling for umami.
Which is your favorite?
One click, anonymous. See what others chose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Glarner Alpkäse Cheese the same as Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses.
Is Glarner Alpkäse Cheese similar to Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.
Can I substitute Glarner Alpkäse Cheese for Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Glarner Alpkäse Cheese taste like Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
Glarner Alpkäse Cheese reads as mild when young, more pungent with longer ripening, while Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is umami.
What is Glarner Alpkäse Cheese made of?
Glarner Alpkäse 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, Glarner Alpkäse Cheese or Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.