master-cooks | The Reason You Should Avoid Buying Pre Grated Parmesan Cheese

Pre-grated Parmesan cheese might seem like a convenient option, but there are several reasons you might want to avoid it. Firstly, pre-grated cheese often includes additives such as cellulose, a plant-based anti-caking agent that prevents clumping. While cellulose is safe to consume, its presence means you're getting less actual cheese in each serving, potentially affecting flavor and texture. Moreover, pre-grated Parmesan tends to lose its freshness more quickly than whole blocks. The grating process exposes more of the cheese's surface area to air, resulting in a loss of aroma and taste over time. This exposure can also affect the cheese's moisture content, making it dry and less flavorful. Additionally, the quality of pre-grated Parmesan is often inferior to that of whole Parmesan. Whole blocks are typically aged longer and possess a more robust and complex flavor profile. By grating your own Parmesan, you ensure the cheese is fresher, more flavorful, and free of unnecessary additives. Although it requires a bit more effort, the superior taste and texture of freshly grated Parmesan can significantly enhance your dishes, making it a worthwhile investment for any cheese lover.

How to grate your own Parmesan and freeze it

A block or wedge of Parmesan may be pricier than the pre-grated options, but it's definitely worth it if you want to steer clear of additives. Plus, you can save the Parmesan rind for homemade broths after grating the cheese. While it does require some effort, you can grate extra and freeze the leftovers to ensure you always have some on hand. To grate a large quantity of Parmesan without straining your wrists with a hand grater, consider using a food processor equipped with a grating disk, which can quickly handle a substantial amount of cheese. This method will yield a fine grate, ideal for topping pasta or filling ravioli.

In the refrigerator, freshly grated Parmesan will stay good for about two weeks before it begins to clump, but when frozen, it can last up to six months. Similarly, a block of Parmesan can be stored in the freezer for up to a year. When you're ready to use the frozen grated cheese, simply let it thaw for a few hours, and it will be good to go. Alternatively, if you plan to melt the shredded Parmesan, you can add it directly to a hot dish without thawing. If you're concerned about the shreds sticking together, a little cornstarch can be sprinkled on the grated cheese to prevent clumping. This won't alter the flavor at all, and you only need about a tablespoon to coat the cheese evenly.

The Reason You Should Avoid Buying Pre-Grated Parmesan Cheese

How to grate your own Parmesan and freeze it

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