Dairy | Vegetarian Diet (if made with microbial rennet) Gluten Free

Fat Parmesan Cheese

Bos taurus Allergens: Milk
fat parmesan cheese

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family N/A (Animal product)
  • Primary Cuisine Southern European
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Milk

The Forktionary Angle

"The ultimate umami booster, enhancing dishes with its deep, savory complexity and granular texture."

Definition

A hard, granular Italian cheese, typically aged, known for its sharp, salty, and umami-rich flavor profile.

Sensory Profile

TasteSalty, Umami, Pungent, Nutty, Sharp
TextureHard, Granular, Brittle
AromaPungent, Nutty, Earthy
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Avg. Aging Period

12-36 months

Typical Fat Content

28-32%

Umami Compounds

Glutamate-rich

Nutrition Facts

Per 14g (1 tbsp grated)
Calories431 kcal
Total Fat29 g
Saturated Fat19 g
Trans Fat0.8 g
Cholesterol88 mg
Protein38 g
Total Carbohydrate3.2 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars0 g
Calcium1180 mg
Iron0.8 mg
Potassium100 mg

Chef’s Secret

Save the rinds! They can be simmered in soups, stews, or tomato sauces to impart deep umami flavor. Remove before serving.

Substitutions

Best Match

Pecorino Romano

1:1 (use less for strong flavor)

Sheep's milk cheese, saltier and tangier; excellent for grating on pasta.

Grana Padano

1:1

Similar to Parmesan but milder, often less expensive, good for general use.

Asiago (aged)

1:1

Offers a nutty and pungent flavor, slightly softer than Parmesan.

Nutritional Yeast

Varies

Dairy-free option for a cheesy, umami flavor; no melt or texture.

Buying Guide

Look for Parmigiano-Reggiano with its rind stamp, indicating authentic origin. Buy wedges and grate fresh for best flavor.

Flavor Pairings

Pasta Risotto Soups Salads Roasted vegetables Cured meats

Recipes Using Fat Parmesan Cheese

Pasta Rice And Grains Course Eggs Dairy Poultry

2Bleu's White Lasagna Lite Bleu

Crave-worthy lasagna, reimagined! This Lite Bleu recipe features tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and sweet carrots in a creamy, reduced-fat Alfredo sauce. Provolone cheese adds a burst of authentic Italian flavor between layers of low-carb pasta. A complete and satisfying meal perfect for your weight loss journey. This delicious and healthy lasagna is designed to fit your Lite Bleu diet plan – a balanced recipe for those seeking healthy, flavorful meals. Learn more about our Lite Bleu weight loss program on our homepage!

See Complete Recipe