Parmesan Cheese vs Pecorino Romano Cheese

In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Parmesan Cheese and Pecorino Romano Cheese, including:

• "What is the difference between Parmesan Cheese and Pecorino Romano Cheese?"
• "Is Parmesan Cheese and Pecorino Romano Cheese the same?"
• "How does Parmesan Cheese compare to Pecorino Romano Cheese cheese?"
• "How does the taste of Parmesan Cheese compare to Pecorino Romano Cheese?"
• "Is Parmesan Cheese or Pecorino Romano Cheese better?"

Parmesan Cheese Overview

Parmesan, often referred to by its Italian name, Parmigiano-Reggiano, is a hard, granular cheese known for its rich flavor and grainy texture. Made from cow's milk, it's aged for a minimum of 12 months, often much longer, to develop its distinct nutty and savory profile. Parmesan is a staple in Italian cuisine, commonly grated over pasta dishes, stirred into soups, or eaten on its own.

Pecorino Romano Cheese Overview

Pecorino Romano is one of the most ancient types of cheese and a staple in Italian cuisine. Made from sheep's milk, it is salty and sharp, traditionally used grated over pasta dishes, incorporated into sauces, or eaten on its own with a drizzle of honey. Pecorino Romano is predominantly produced in the regions of Lazio, Sardinia, and Tuscany.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Parmesan Cheese comes from Italy. Pecorino Romano Cheese originated from Italy.

Certification

Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. Parmesan is not a protected cheese. Pecorino Romano Cheese has a PDO (1996), DOP (1996).

Milk Type and Treatment

Parmesan Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically unpasteurized. Pecorino Romano Cheese is made with sheep milk.

Composition and Texture

Parmesan's texture can be described as "hard, artisan". Pecorino Romano Cheese has a fat content of ~36%. Pecorino Romano's texture can be described as "hard".

Taste and Aroma

Parmesan Cheese has a salty, savory taste. Parmesan's aroma can be described as "nutty, strong". Pecorino Romano Cheese has a sharp, salty taste. Pecorino Romano's aroma can be described as "strong".

Appearance and Aging

Parmesan Cheese's appearance is colored straw . Pecorino Romano Cheese has a color of white interior, pale yellow to brown/black rind , comes in wheels, 49–71 lbs, 12–13" high, 11–12" wide and has an aging period of 5–8 months or longer .

Rind and Rennet Type

Parmesan Cheese's rind is described as natural . Pecorino Romano Cheese's rind is described as pale yellow to brown or black , with rennet rennet.

Ranking

Parmesan is ranked #43 out of 996 types based on community views. Pecorino Romano is ranked #64 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Parmesan and Pecorino Romano pages.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a hard, artisan cheese, go for Parmesan. But if you enjoy a hard consistency, Pecorino Romano might be the better pick. Parmesan has a salty, savory taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Pecorino Romano offers a sharp, salty profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Parmesan Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Pecorino Romano Cheese to Other Cheeses