Grana Padano

Grana Padano is a hard, slow-ripened, semi-fat cheese from Italy, known for its grainy texture and savory, nutty flavor. It is not bound to a specific season and is available year-round. Grana Padano is a staple in Italian cuisine and is often used grated over pasta, risotto, and salads, or served in chunks as part of an antipasto platter. It is similar to Parmigiano Reggiano but is produced over a wider area in Northern Italy and typically aged for a shorter period, making it milder and less crumbly.

Grana Padano Synonyms

Grana
Grana cheese

Grana Padano Substitutes

Parmesan Cheese

Different Forms/Types of Grana Padano

Chunk

A substantial piece of Grana Padano, suitable for grating or shaving at home, ensuring freshness and flavor.

Wedge

A triangular slice of Grana Padano, typically cut from a larger wheel, offering a fresh and potent flavor.

Grated

Grana Padano that has been finely shredded, ideal for topping pasta, risotto, and salads for a savory umami kick.

Shaved

Thin slices of Grana Padano, perfect for garnishing dishes or enjoying as part of an antipasto platter.

How to Choose Grana Padano

When selecting Grana Padano, look for the PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) seal, which guarantees authenticity and quality. The cheese should have a hard, golden-yellow rind with the Grana Padano name stamped on it. The texture should be firm and grainy, with a fragrant and delicate aroma. Avoid any pieces with cracks or excessive dryness, as this may indicate improper storage or aging.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Grana Padano

Grana Padano, an Italian hard cheese, is a versatile ingredient that can add depth and richness to a variety of dishes. For intermediate and expert home cooks, it's important to consider the age of the Grana Padano when cooking, as it can range from 9 to over 24 months, affecting both texture and flavor. Younger Grana Padano is milder and more meltable, making it suitable for sauces and fillings, while older cheese is more crystalline and pungent, perfect for grating over dishes. To fully appreciate its flavor, bring the cheese to room temperature before serving. When incorporating Grana Padano into hot dishes, add it towards the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming rubbery. For a crispy addition to salads or as a garnish, try shaving thin slices of Grana Padano with a vegetable peeler.

Shelf Life of Grana Padano

Grana Padano should be stored in the refrigerator, wrapped in parchment paper or foil, and placed in a partially sealed plastic bag to allow for air circulation. Avoid airtight containers as they can promote moisture buildup and mold growth. For grated Grana Padano, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use within a few days for best flavor. If a piece of Grana Padano develops mold, you can cut away the moldy part; the rest of the cheese is still safe to eat.

Recommended Brands for Grana Padano

Grana Padano: Auricchio, Zanetti, and Agriform are reputable brands that offer high-quality Grana Padano cheese.

Cooking Techniques for Grana Padano

Grating: Grana Padano is often grated over pasta, risotto, and soups. Use a fine grater for a light dusting that will melt quickly, or a coarser grater for more texture and bite.

Melting: Incorporate Grana Padano into sauces or risottos by gently melting it into the preparation. Ensure low heat to avoid separating or toughening the cheese, which can occur if overheated.

Shaving: Thin shavings of Grana Padano can be used to garnish salads or served as part of an antipasto platter. Use a vegetable peeler or cheese slicer to create elegant, thin slices that showcase the cheese's flavor without overwhelming the dish.

Popular Grana Padano Recipes

Risotto alla Milanese
Pasta Carbonara with Grana Padano
Grana Padano Cheese Crisps

Grana Padano Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 29 g
fiber: 0 g
sugar: 0 g
protein: 33 g
calories: 398 kcal
carbohydrates: 0 g

Flavor Combinations

Grana Padano pairs exceptionally well with ingredients that complement its nutty and salty profile. It goes well with fruits like pears and figs, nuts such as walnuts and almonds, and is often paired with cured meats like prosciutto. In terms of spices and herbs, it matches beautifully with black pepper, nutmeg, and sage. Grana Padano can also enhance the flavor of vegetables like asparagus and spinach, and it's a classic topping for traditional Italian pasta dishes.

Allergen Information

Grana Padano contains lactose and cow's milk proteins, which can trigger allergic reactions in individuals with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. Symptoms can include hives, stomach upset, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis. Those with these conditions should avoid Grana Padano and be cautious of cross-contamination in dishes.