Grana Padano Cheese

Grana Padano Cheese is a hard, slow-ripened, semi-fat cheese from Italy, comparable to Parmigiano Reggiano. It is made from cow's milk and has a rich, full-bodied flavor. It is available year-round and is predominantly used in Italian cuisine, often grated over pasta, used in soups or risottos. It can also be eaten on its own as part of a cheese platter.

Grana Padano Cheese Synonyms

Grana
Padano

Grana Padano Cheese Substitutes

Parmesan Cheese

Different Forms/Types of Grana Padano Cheese

Whole

Grana Padano cheese can be found in whole wheels, which are typically aged for 9-24 months. This form is ideal for grating or shaving over dishes.

Grated

Grana Padano is also available pre-grated for convenience. This form is ready to use and perfect for sprinkling over pasta, risotto, or salads.

Shaved

Thinly sliced Grana Padano cheese is another form you might find. These delicate shavings are great for garnishing dishes.

Wedges

This cheese is often sold in wedges, which are cut from the whole wheel. This form is perfect for slicing and serving on a cheese board.

How to Choose Grana Padano Cheese

When purchasing Grana Padano cheese, look for the PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) mark, which guarantees its authenticity and quality. The cheese should have a hard, grainy texture and a fragrant, nutty aroma. The rind should be hard and thick, with the name 'Grana Padano' imprinted on it. Avoid cheese with cracks or mold on the rind. For pre-grated or shaved cheese, check the packaging date to ensure freshness.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Grana Padano Cheese

Grana Padano is a hard, slow-ripened, semi-fat cheese from Italy, comparable to Parmigiano Reggiano. It's a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes. When using Grana Padano, remember that it's a dry and crumbly cheese, so it's best grated or shaved. It melts well, making it perfect for sauces, risottos, and pasta dishes. However, be careful not to overheat it as it can become rubbery. For the best flavor, bring it to room temperature before serving. It's also important to store it properly. Wrap it in wax paper and then in a plastic bag, and store it in the vegetable drawer of your refrigerator.

Shelf Life of Grana Padano Cheese

Whole or wedge Grana Padano cheese should be wrapped in parchment paper and stored in the vegetable drawer of your refrigerator, where it can last for several weeks. Avoid using plastic wrap as it can cause the cheese to sweat and develop mold. Pre-grated or shaved cheese should be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator and used within a few days for best flavor. If mold develops on the cheese, cut away at least 1 inch around and below the mold spot. Be sure to keep the knife out of the mold itself so it doesn't contaminate other parts of the cheese.

Recommended Brands for Grana Padano Cheese

wedge Grana Padano: Zanetti

whole Grana Padano: Auricchio

grated Grana Padano: igourmet

shaved Grana Padano: Fratelli Pinna

Cooking Techniques for Grana Padano Cheese

Grating: Grating Grana Padano releases its aroma and flavor, making it perfect for sprinkling over pasta, risotto, and salads. Use a fine grater for a light, fluffy texture, or a coarse grater for a more robust flavor.

Melting: Grana Padano melts well, making it ideal for sauces, risottos, and pasta dishes. Melt it over low heat to avoid it becoming rubbery.

Shaving: Shaved Grana Padano is perfect for adding a finishing touch to dishes. Use a vegetable peeler or cheese slicer to create thin, delicate shavings.

Popular Grana Padano Cheese Recipes

Grana Padano Risotto
Grana Padano Cheese Straws
Grana Padano and Pear Salad

Grana Padano Cheese Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 28 g
fiber: 0 g
sugar: 0 g
protein: 33 g
calories: 392 kcal
carbohydrates: 0 g

Flavor Combinations

Grana Padano pairs well with a variety of ingredients. It's often paired with fruits like pears and figs, as well as nuts like walnuts and almonds. It also complements cured meats like prosciutto. In terms of wine, it pairs well with full-bodied reds and sparkling whites. It also works well with ingredients like pasta, risotto, and vegetables, and is a staple in Italian cuisine.

Allergen Information

Grana Padano Cheese contains lactose and casein, a protein found in milk, and can cause allergic reactions in people with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. Symptoms can include hives, swelling, stomach cramps, vomiting, or anaphylaxis in severe cases.

Ingredient Comparisons

Grana Padano vs Parmesan