What is hard cheese and why is it popular?
List of pertinent information about ‘what is hard cheese’:
– Hard cheese is a firm type of cheese that can be categorized into hard and semi-hard varieties.
– It is made by separating and draining most of the whey before pressing the curd.
– The curd is then either brined or waxed, and the cheese is aged for two to 36 months, or even longer.
– Aging determines the intensity of the flavor, with well-aged cheese being less creamy and grainier in texture.
– Hard cheeses are dense, savory, and often have strong notes of hazelnut and sautéed butter.
– They are favored for their umami taste and have a mild tang, followed by a sharp and aromatic finish.
– The texture is granular and firm, and the cheese often forms natural salt crystals with age, resulting in a crumbly body.
– Most hard cheeses develop a tough rind that adds flavor when mixed into soups, sauces, and stews.
– Some types of hard cheeses include Parmigiano-Reggiano, Pecorino, Manchego, and Grana Padano.
– Parmigiano-Reggiano is sharp, intense, and full-bodied, aging for at least 12 months.
– Pecorino is slightly milder than Parmigiano-Reggiano and has notes of spice and caramelized butter.
– Manchego is nutty with hints of sweet fruit and spice, made from sheep’s milk.
– Grana Padano is similar to Parmigiano-Reggiano but milder in taste, requiring only 9 months of maturation.