Parmesan cheese is one of Italy’s national culinary treasures. And although part of parm’s history is having a long shelf life, there are some precautions you need to take when storing parmesan cheese. Here’s what you need to know.
How To Store Parmesan Cheese?
Parmesan cheese was invented around the 12th century in Parma (hence the name) and Reggio Emilia by benedictine and cistercian monks who were aiming for a cheese that could endure long trips. So you could say that parmesan cheese was made with preservation in mind. However, times change, especially over nine centuries!
No doubt, things have changed a lot compared to the Middle Ages. So the best way to store parmesan cheese will vary depending on what version of parm you buy. Below is what you need to know.
How To Store a Block of Parmesan Cheese
Whole parmesan cheese is usually sold in sealed confections. As long as the confection remains unopened, parmesan cheese can keep for up to six months in the fridge. Once you open the confection, the cheese will last about one week in the fridge.
The ideal temperature for storing parmesan cheese is around 39-46 °F (4-8 °C)
When storing an opened block of parmesan cheese in the fridge, it’s important to keep the cheese separate from other foods by placing it in an airtight container or wrapping it in plastic cling. The reason is that the fats in the cheese tend to absorb the odors present in your fridge.
How To Store Grated Parmesan Cheese
When it comes to grated parmesan cheese, store it the same way it was stored at the supermarket or store where you bought it.
If the cheese needs refrigeration, keep it in an airtight container and, if possible, away from other foods in your fridge. Remember that parmesan cheese can easily absorb other odors in your fridge.
On the other hand, if the cheese was stored in a non-refrigerated shelf, read the label carefully and follow the storage instructions.
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