Parmesan Cheese vs Taleggio Cheese

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

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

Taleggio Cheese Overview

Taleggio is a semi-soft, washed-rind cheese from the Lombardy region of Italy. It has a strong aroma but a surprisingly mild, fruity, and slightly tangy flavor with a creamy texture that becomes more pronounced as the cheese ages. Taleggio is excellent for melting and is often used in risottos or on polenta.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Parmesan Cheese comes from Italy. Taleggio 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. Taleggio Cheese has a PDO (1996).

Milk Type and Treatment

Parmesan Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically unpasteurized. Taleggio Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically heated.

Composition and Texture

Parmesan's texture can be described as "hard, artisan". Taleggio's texture can be described as "soft, slightly melting under the rind, firmer towards the center".

Taste and Aroma

Parmesan Cheese has a salty, savory taste. Parmesan's aroma can be described as "nutty, strong". Taleggio Cheese has a sweet, delicate, slightly sour taste. Taleggio's aroma can be described as "herbaceous, aromatic".

Appearance and Aging

Parmesan Cheese's appearance is colored straw . Taleggio Cheese has a color of pinkish-red rind, white to straw yellow inside , comes in square, 7–8 inches wide, 1.5–3 inches high, 3.7–4.8 pounds weight and has an aging period of at least 35 (up to 50) days .

Rind and Rennet Type

Parmesan Cheese's rind is described as natural . Taleggio Cheese's rind is described as soft, thin, pinkish-red , with calf rennet.

Ranking

Parmesan is ranked #40 out of 996 types based on community views. Taleggio is ranked #41 out of 996 types based on community views.

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 soft, slightly melting under the rind, firmer towards the center consistency, Taleggio might be the better pick. Parmesan has a salty, savory taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Taleggio offers a sweet, delicate, slightly sour profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Parmesan Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Taleggio Cheese to Other Cheeses