Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese vs Sheep's Milk Cheese
Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is a grainy, flaky cow-milk cheese from Italy, while Sheep's Milk Cheese is a sheep-milk cheese.
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 Sheep's Milk Cheese?
Sheep's milk cheese is cheese made from ewe's milk, one of the three main milks used for cheese alongside cow and goat. Because sheep milk is high in fat, these cheeses are known for a concentrated, full-bodied taste.
What's the Difference Between Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese and Sheep's Milk Cheese?
- Milk type: Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (Cow's milk), Sheep's Milk Cheese (sheep)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese | Sheep's Milk Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Italy | — |
| Specific Origin | Emilia-Romagna Region | — |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Sheep |
| Milk Treatment | Raw | — |
| Texture | Grainy, flaky | — |
| Rind | Hard | — |
| Aging | 12 to 36 months | — |
| Taste | Umami | — |
Taste Comparison: Does Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese Taste Like Sheep's Milk Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese for Sheep's Milk Cheese?
Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese can stand in for Sheep's Milk Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese or Sheep's Milk Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want.
Which is your favorite?
One click, anonymous. See what others chose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese the same as Sheep's Milk Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is made from cow milk; Sheep's Milk Cheese uses sheep.
Is Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese similar to Sheep's Milk Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese for Sheep's Milk Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in richness and milk character.
Does Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese taste like Sheep's Milk Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
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 Sheep's Milk Cheese made of?
Sheep's Milk Cheese is made from sheep milk, using animal or microbial rennet.
Which should I choose, Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese or Sheep's Milk Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.