Parmesan: Italy’s Iconic Hard Cheese

Parmesan cheese is one of the most important cheeses in all of Italy. The name “parmesan” is protected by European authorities, which means that only cheeses made according to traditional practices in a particular part of Italy can be legally sold under the label. Specifically, the cheese must be a product of Parma, Modena, Reggio Emilia, or certain parts of Bologna or Mantova. True parmesans are molded with a stencil that will indicate where it was produced.

This iconic cheese is made between the months of May and November out of whole cow’s milk mixed with skimmed milk. This mixture is heated and combined with rennet to foster curds, which are then pressed in a cheese mold. It is then soaked in a brine bath and aged for at least two years before it can be sold.

At Amaro Bistro’s Bothell Italian restaurant, you can enjoy parmesan on our pizzas, our pastas, and many of our other classic Italian favorites. Come and get your fill of this Italian classic tonight!