Why Parmigiano Reggiano Reigns Supreme with Pro Chefs

When it comes to choosing the best cheese for your culinary creations, the quality and authenticity of the ingredients you use can make a significant difference in the final outcome. Ingredients don't just impact the taste of the food, they impact the way your customers feel after they leave the restaurant. That's why we recommend opting for Parmigiano Reggiano over Parmesan cheese for a truly exceptional culinary experience.

What sets Parmigiano Reggiano apart?

Parmigiano Reggiano is a protected designation of origin (PDO) cheese that is produced exclusively in the agricultural areas around the cities of Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, Bologna, and Mantua. This prestigious cheese is made using traditional methods, with no artificial preservatives, that have been passed down for centuries. The final product is lactose-free, packed with healthy protein, and full of flavor. 

Why is Parmigiano Reggiano superior to Parmesan cheese?

For decades, American consumers have assumed that 'Parmesan' is simply the English translation of Parmigiano Reggiano- but nothing could be further from the truth. Parmesan cheese is an imitation of Parmigiano Reggiano, and is more widely available and less expensive because it is not regulated by the same strict set of standards controlling the production of Parmigiano Reggiano.

For example, Parmesan does not have to be made in Italy, it can contain artificial ingredients, and there are no rules governing the quality of the milk it contains. Perhaps most importantly for a restaurant, Parmesan cheese simply cannot compare to the rich, complex flavors of authentic Parmigiano Reggiano that has been aged in traditional ways for over 12 months, allowing the flavors to develop and intensify over time.

By choosing Parmigiano Reggiano over Parmesan cheese, chefs can enjoy a cheese that is rich in umami flavor, with nutty undertones and a granular texture that adds depth to a wide range of dishes. Whether grated over pasta, shaved onto salads, or enjoyed on its own, Parmigiano Reggiano brings a level of sophistication and authenticity to any recipe.

How do we make Parmigiano Reggiano affordable for chefs?

As importers and direct wholesalers of Parmigiano Reggiano, and as Italians ourselves, we are able to cut out the middlemen and offer this premium cheese to chefs at a more affordable price point. By importing Parmigiano Reggiano directly from producers in Italy, we ensure that chefs have access to the highest quality Parmigiano Reggiano without the added markup of foreign consultants and brokers that large American corporations typically must use.

When it comes to creating exceptional dishes that stand out from the rest, the quality of the ingredients you use can make all the difference. By choosing Parmigiano Reggiano over Parmesan cheese, chefs can elevate their culinary creations to new heights and delight their customers with the authentic flavors of Italy.