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Parmesan Recipes

Rich, bold and tangy, our favourite Italian hard cheese elevates roast potatoes, pastas, chicken dishes and more.

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Pecorino vs. Parmesan Cheese: What’s the Difference?

Pecorino vs. Parmesan Cheese: What’s the Difference?

Due to their similarities, many people wonder what the difference is between pecorino and Parmesan cheese. Well, they can both be enjoyed whole but are equally delightful grated on top of a variety of recipes, including pasta bakes and pizzas, and both have a distinctive tang. As well as their versatility, they look similar. They’re both white cheese, flaky and flecked with crystals.

So with all these similarities between the two cheeses, you may still be wondering, what’s the difference between pecorino and Parmesan? One key difference is that pecorino, known for its salty and sharp flavour, is made from sheep’s milk, while Parmesan is made from cow's milk. Additionally, pecorino has a more intense taste compared to parmesan, with a distinctive nutty flavour.

Another distinction between the cheeses lies in their ageing processes and regional origins. Pecorino Romano, a popular variety, is typically aged for eight to 12 months, resulting in a robust and piquant flavour. Parmesan, or Parmigiano-Reggiano, ages for 12 to 36 months, developing a complex, savoury taste and granular texture.

Can you use pecorino romano instead of Parmesan?

Can you use pecorino romano instead of Parmesan?

If you’d like a little more kick in flavour, you can enjoy some pecorino Romano as an alternative to Parmesan. However, our Senior Recipe Development Manager, Mimi Morley, suggests making sure to use pecorino carefully because the flavour is more intense and will make more of a statement in your cheese recipes.

For example, if you’re using pecorino when the recipe calls for Parmesan cheese, consider using one-third less as a rule of thumb, to account for the heightened taste and saltiness.

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