When you think of Parmesan cheese, you probably think of delicious pasta dishes and other Italian favorites. But do you ever stop to ask about how much is a pound of Parmesan cheese? The answer may surprise you! We will be showing you the price of parmesan cheese and why this cheese isn’t always cheap.
How Much is a Pound of Parmesan Cheese?
The price of a pound of Parmesan cheese varies according to brand, quality, and location. Parmesan cheese costs between $14 to $24 per pound.
Authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano, imported from Italy and matured for extended durations, is priced at a premium due to its exceptional quality and traditional production processes.
While domestic or generic brands may be less expensive, they may lack the same depth of flavor or authenticity.
The price of Parmesan cheese can also be impacted by changes in supply and demand as well as market conditions. Even though the price of a pound of Parmesan cheese can vary, its value comes from its rich flavor, adaptability in the kitchen, and cultural significance in the culinary arts.
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Why is Parmesan Cheese So Expensive?
Parmigiano-Reggiano tends to be the most expensive wedge in your store’s gourmet cheese area. This cheese has protected cultural status, which means that its manufacturers must meet several conditions to use the name.
This cheese can only be prepared in a certain location in northern Italy, using local cow’s milk and specialized processes. It must also be aged for at least one year (most are aged for two years).
This cheese is more expensive, a pound ranging from $14 to $24, because it must be aged for a long time and can only be found in Italy.
Fun fact: It’s a $7 billion industry in Italy for Parm-Reg wheels, which are regularly stolen and sold on the illegal market. The increased expense of bringing this cheese into stores as a result of pandemic supply limitations is also passed on to consumers.
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How Do You Use Different Types of Parmesan?
Now, let us discuss how to use the different types of Parmesan cheese:
1. Pre-grated and Pre-shredded Parmesan
This Parmesan is the cheapest, thus it has matured the least. Use it as a supporting player in your cuisine, such as the background note in a salad dressing or bread crumb coating.
This variety is also ideal for frico and Parmesan crisps. Because its dry texture is ideal for baking, its mild flavor will not overpower your taste buds, and you may use it a lot without breaking the bank.
2. Block Parmesan Aged at Least 10 Months
This cheese will have a stronger taste than the pre-grated variety, but a waxier texture than crumbled Parm-Reg. Use it as a key flavor component in your recipe. Shave it into a salad, or mix it with risotto or polenta.
3. Block Parmesan Aged More Than 10 Months
Parmigiano-Reggiano will bear an official seal stamped directly on the cheese. Because this cheese is more expensive, use it to truly make a dish stand out, such as grated over pasta or popcorn. You can even put the full chunk on your cheeseboard (our favorite way to eat it).
Conclusion
When selecting genuine Parmesan cheese, look for cheese with an even color on the outer edge. Try to avoid any cheese that is discolored. When purchasing by the rind, seek for cheese that is not cracking.
Keep in mind that most grocery store parmesan cheese isn’t really “parmesan” cheese. Instead, this is processed cheese that is not made from actual cheese.