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Parmesan Cheese vs Provolone Cheese
Parmesan Cheese
Provolone Cheese
In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Parmesan Cheese and Provolone Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between Parmesan Cheese and Provolone Cheese?"
- "Is Parmesan Cheese and Provolone Cheese the same?"
- "How does Parmesan Cheese compare to Provolone Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of Parmesan Cheese compare to Provolone Cheese?"
- "Is Parmesan Cheese or Provolone 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.
Provolone Cheese Overview
Provolone is a well-known Italian cheese with a smooth, firm texture and a mild, slightly tangy flavor that becomes sharper and more robust with age. Made from cow's milk, this stretched-curd cheese can be aged from a few months to a year or more. Provolone is excellent for slicing, grating, or melting.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Country of Origin
Parmesan Cheese comes from Italy. Provolone Cheese originated from Italy.
Milk Type and Treatment
Parmesan Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically unpasteurized. Provolone Cheese is made with cow milk.
Composition and Texture
Parmesan's texture can be described as "hard, artisan". Provolone's texture can be described as "semi-hard, artisan".
Taste and Aroma
Parmesan Cheese has a salty, savory taste. Parmesan's aroma can be described as "nutty, strong". Provolone Cheese has a tangy taste. Provolone's aroma can be described as "pleasant".
Appearance and Aging
Parmesan Cheese's appearance is colored straw . Provolone Cheese has a color of pale yellow .
Rind and Rennet Type
Parmesan Cheese's rind is described as natural .
Ranking
Parmesan is ranked #42 out of 996 types based on community views. Provolone is ranked #4 out of 996 types based on community views.
Pairing Comparison
| Parmesan | Provolone | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pairings | No pairings listed. | Pastrami, Salami |
| Other Good Pairings | Shrimp | Chorizo, Grilled Cheese, Ham, Pinot Grigio, Pulled Pork, Roast Beef, Steak, Tomatoes, Tuna, Turkey |
For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Parmesan and Provolone pages.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Parmesan Cheese | Provolone Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Italy | Italy |
| Specific Origin | Not Specified | Not Specified |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Unpasteurized | Not Specified |
| Rind | Natural | Not Specified |
| Texture | Hard, artisan | Semi-hard, artisan |
| Taste | Salty, savory | Tangy |
| Aroma | Nutty, strong | Pleasant |
| Colors | Straw | Pale yellow |
Which One Should You Choose?
If you prefer a hard, artisan cheese, go for Parmesan. But if you enjoy a semi-hard, artisan consistency, Provolone might be the better pick. Parmesan has a salty, savory taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Provolone offers a tangy profile, ideal for different meals.
