Pecorino vs. Parmesan Cheese: What’s the Difference?
Due to their similarities, many people wonder what the difference is between pecorino and Parmesan cheese. Well, they can both be enjoyed whole but are equally delightful grated on top of a variety of recipes, including pasta bakes and all kinds of pizzas. Plus, both cheeses have a distinctive tang. As well as their versatility, they look similar. They’re both white cheese, flaky and flecked with crystals.
So, with all these similarities between the two cheeses, you may still be wondering, what’s the difference between pecorino and Parmesan? One key difference is that pecorino, known for its salty and sharp flavour, is made from sheep’s milk, while Parmesan is made from cow's milk. Additionally, pecorino has a more intense taste compared to parmesan, with a distinctive nutty flavour.
Another distinction between the cheeses lies in their ageing processes and regional origins. Pecorino Romano, a popular variety, is typically aged for eight to 12 months, resulting in a robust and piquant flavour.
Parmesan, or Parmigiano-Reggiano, ages for 12 to 36 months, developing a complex, savoury taste and granular texture. For excellent parmesan flavour, try our seared steak & creamy parmesan sauce recipe.
