Unraveling The Secret: Is Parmesan Cheese The Ultimate Pizza Ingredient?
What To Know
- However, in modern pizza making, parmesan cheese is often used more liberally, both as a topping and as an ingredient in the sauce.
- However, it is important to use a high-quality parmesan cheese that will not overpower the other flavors in the sauce.
- The best type of parmesan cheese to use on pizza is a high-quality, aged parmesan cheese.
- However, it is important to use a high-quality parmesan cheese that will not overpower the other flavors in the sauce.
Parmesan cheese, with its nutty and sharp flavor, has become a staple ingredient in many Italian dishes, including pasta, risotto, and salads. But what about pizza? Is parmesan cheese used in pizza? The answer is a resounding yes, but with some caveats.
The History of Parmesan Cheese on Pizza
The use of parmesan cheese on pizza dates back to the early days of pizza making in Naples, Italy. In the 18th century, pizza makers began adding grated parmesan cheese to their pies as a way to add flavor and richness. The practice quickly spread throughout Italy and eventually made its way to other parts of the world.
Traditional vs. Modern Pizza
In traditional Italian pizza, parmesan cheese is typically used as a finishing touch, sprinkled on top of the pizza just before it is served. This allows the cheese to melt slightly and add a subtle flavor to the pizza. However, in modern pizza making, parmesan cheese is often used more liberally, both as a topping and as an ingredient in the sauce.
Parmesan Cheese as a Topping
When used as a topping, parmesan cheese can add a salty, nutty flavor to pizza. It can also help to balance out the acidity of the tomato sauce and the richness of the mozzarella cheese. Parmesan cheese is also a good source of calcium and protein.
Parmesan Cheese in the Sauce
Some pizza makers also use parmesan cheese in the sauce. This can help to thicken the sauce and add a more complex flavor. However, it is important to use a high-quality parmesan cheese that will not overpower the other flavors in the sauce.
Regional Variations
The use of parmesan cheese on pizza varies from region to region in Italy. In some areas, such as Naples, parmesan cheese is used sparingly, if at all. In other areas, such as Rome, parmesan cheese is a more common topping.
Parmesan Cheese and Other Cheeses
Parmesan cheese is not the only cheese that can be used on pizza. Mozzarella cheese is the most common cheese used on pizza, but other cheeses, such as provolone, asiago, and fontina, can also be used.
The Bottom Line: Parmesan Cheese and Pizza – A Match Made in Italy
So, is parmesan cheese used in pizza? The answer is a resounding yes. Parmesan cheese can be used as a topping, an ingredient in the sauce, or both. It is a versatile cheese that can add flavor, richness, and complexity to pizza.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: What is the best type of parmesan cheese to use on pizza?
A: The best type of parmesan cheese to use on pizza is a high-quality, aged parmesan cheese. Look for a cheese that is at least 12 months old and has a hard, crumbly texture.
Q: How much parmesan cheese should I use on pizza?
A: The amount of parmesan cheese you use on pizza is a matter of personal preference. However, a good rule of thumb is to use about 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese per 12-inch pizza.
Q: Can I use parmesan cheese in the sauce?
A: Yes, you can use parmesan cheese in the sauce. However, it is important to use a high-quality parmesan cheese that will not overpower the other flavors in the sauce.