Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese vs Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese

Share:

Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is a grainy, flaky cow-milk cheese from Italy, while Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese is soft, soft-ripened and made from goat milk, originating in France.

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 Is Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese?

Pelardon des Cevennes is a traditional French cheese made from unpasteurized goat's milk in the Languedoc region. This soft, soft-ripened cheese has a natural rind and is characterized by its white color. It offers an acidic, fruity flavor that is complemented by its distinct goaty aroma. The texture is creamy and smooth, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy soft cheeses. Pelardon des Cevennes is typically enjoyed on its own or paired with fresh bread and a light wine. Its simple production and natural ingredients highlight the classic cheese-making traditions of the region.

What's the Difference Between Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese and Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese?

  • Origin: Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Italy), Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese (France)
  • Milk type: Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Cow's milk), Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese (goat's milk)
  • Milk treatment: Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Raw), Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese (unpasteurized)
  • Texture: Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Grainy, flaky), Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese (soft, soft-ripened)
  • Rind: Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Hard), Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese (natural)
  • Taste: Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Umami), Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese (acidic, fruity)

Side-by-Side Comparison

Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese
Country of Origin Italy France
Specific Origin Emilia-Romagna Region Languedoc
Milk Type Cow's milk Goat's milk
Milk Treatment Raw Unpasteurized
Texture Grainy, flaky Soft, soft-ripened
Rind Hard Natural
Aging 12 to 36 months —
Taste Umami Acidic, fruity

Taste Comparison: Does Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese Taste Like Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese?

Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese reads as umami, while Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese brings acidic, fruity character. On the nose, Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese offers mild, milky, contrasted with Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese's goaty.

Can You Substitute Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese for Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese?

Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese can stand in for Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe. Expect grainy, flaky bite and body where the recipe calls for soft, soft-ripened. Flavor-wise, Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese reads as umami while Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese brings acidic, fruity notes.

Which Is Better, Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese or Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese?

There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a grainy, flaky cheese, go with Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese. For a soft, soft-ripened profile, Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese is the better fit. Flavor-wise, Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese suits recipes that want umami notes, while Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese fits dishes calling for acidic, fruity.

Which is your favorite?

One click, anonymous. See what others chose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese the same as Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese?

No, they're distinct cheeses. Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese originates in Italy, while Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese comes from France. Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is made from cow milk; Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese uses goat.

Is Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese similar to Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese?

Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.

Can I substitute Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese for Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese?

You can, but expect a shift in richness and milk character.

Does Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese taste like Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese?

Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese reads as umami, while Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese is acidic, fruity. Aromas also diverge. Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese leans mild, milky, and Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese is closer to goaty.

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.

What is Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese made of?

Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese is made from goat milk (unpasteurized). It originates in France.

Which should I choose, Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese or Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese?

It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is grainy, flaky, while Pelardon des Cevennes Cheese is soft, soft-ripened.