Where to Buy Pecorino Romano Cheese?
The best places to buy authentic Pecorino Romano cheese are at specialty cheese shops and online retailers that source directly from Italy, but high-quality versions can also be found in well-stocked supermarkets with robust cheese sections.
Introduction: Pecorino Romano – A Culinary Treasure
Pecorino Romano isn’t just cheese; it’s a piece of Roman history, a flavorful testament to centuries of cheesemaking tradition. This hard, salty cheese, crafted from sheep’s milk (pecora in Italian), is a staple in Italian cuisine, lending its unique character to dishes like cacio e pepe, pasta alla gricia, and countless other culinary creations. But finding authentic Pecorino Romano, especially outside of Italy, can be a challenge. This article will guide you through the best places to procure this culinary treasure, ensuring you’re getting a product that lives up to its name.
The Essence of Pecorino Romano: What to Look For
Before embarking on your quest to find the perfect Pecorino Romano, it’s essential to understand what distinguishes it from other sheep’s milk cheeses. Key characteristics include:
- Origin: True Pecorino Romano must be produced in Lazio (Rome’s region), Sardinia, or Tuscany.
- Milk: It’s made exclusively from whole sheep’s milk.
- Texture: It’s firm and granular, with a slightly crumbly texture.
- Flavor: Expect a sharp, salty, and piquant flavor. Younger cheeses are milder, while aged varieties pack a stronger punch.
- Markings: Look for the rind stamped with the “Pecorino Romano” designation.
Where to Find Authentic Pecorino Romano
Finding genuine Pecorino Romano requires a discerning eye and a reliable source. Here’s a breakdown of the best places to look:
- Specialty Cheese Shops: These establishments often curate a selection of artisanal cheeses from around the world. They typically have knowledgeable staff who can guide you towards authentic Pecorino Romano and provide information about its origin and aging process.
- Online Retailers: Numerous online retailers specialize in importing fine foods from Italy. Look for retailers that clearly state the origin of their Pecorino Romano and provide detailed product descriptions. Read reviews carefully before purchasing. Consider vendors like Murray’s Cheese, Formaggio Kitchen, or similar reputable online cheese shops.
- Italian Delis: Italian delis, especially those with a long history and established relationships with Italian producers, are often reliable sources for authentic Pecorino Romano.
- Well-Stocked Supermarkets: Larger supermarkets with well-developed cheese sections may carry Pecorino Romano, but beware of imitations. Check the label carefully to ensure it’s from Lazio, Sardinia, or Tuscany. Avoid cheeses labeled “Romano” without the “Pecorino” prefix, as these are often cow’s milk cheeses.
- Farmers’ Markets: If you’re lucky enough to live near a farmers’ market with vendors specializing in artisanal cheeses, you might find locally produced sheep’s milk cheeses that offer a similar flavor profile to Pecorino Romano, though they won’t technically be authentic.
Understanding Grades and Aging
Pecorino Romano is typically aged for a minimum of five months for grating cheese and eight months for table cheese. Longer aging periods result in a sharper, more intense flavor.
| Grade | Aging Period | Use | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fresco | < 3 months | Rarely found outside of Italy | Mild, milky |
| Semistagionato | 3-5 months | Table cheese, salads, appetizers | Slightly sharp, salty |
| Stagionato | 5-8 months | Grating, cooking | Sharp, salty, piquant |
| Stravecchio | >8 months | Grating, intense flavor enhancement | Very sharp, intensely salty |
Common Mistakes When Buying Pecorino Romano
Avoid these common pitfalls when searching for Pecorino Romano:
- Confusing “Romano” with “Pecorino Romano”: As mentioned earlier, “Romano” cheese is often a cow’s milk imitation. Always look for the “Pecorino” prefix.
- Ignoring the Origin: Ensure the cheese is from Lazio, Sardinia, or Tuscany. If the label doesn’t specify the origin, it’s likely not authentic.
- Focusing solely on Price: Authentic Pecorino Romano is an artisanal product, and it’s reflected in the price. Be wary of suspiciously cheap options.
- Neglecting the Label: Read the label carefully for information about the producer, ingredients, and aging process. This information can provide clues about the cheese’s authenticity and quality.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality of your Pecorino Romano:
- Wrap the cheese tightly in parchment paper and then plastic wrap or beeswax wrap.
- Store it in the refrigerator’s cheese drawer.
- To prevent it from drying out, consider storing it with a damp paper towel inside the wrapping.
- Remove the cheese from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving to allow its flavors to develop.
FAQs: Your Pecorino Romano Questions Answered
What is the difference between Pecorino Romano and Parmesan?
Pecorino Romano is made from sheep’s milk, while Parmesan (Parmigiano-Reggiano) is made from cow’s milk. Pecorino Romano is generally saltier and sharper than Parmesan.
Can I use Pecorino Romano in place of Parmesan in recipes?
Yes, you can substitute Pecorino Romano for Parmesan, but be mindful of the difference in flavor. Pecorino Romano’s saltiness may require you to adjust the amount of salt in your recipe.
Is Pecorino Romano lactose-free?
While not entirely lactose-free, Pecorino Romano has significantly less lactose than many other cheeses due to the aging process. Many lactose-intolerant individuals can tolerate it in small amounts.
How can I tell if my Pecorino Romano is fresh?
Fresh Pecorino Romano should have a firm, consistent texture and a pleasant, slightly nutty aroma. Avoid cheese that is excessively dry, cracked, or has an ammonia-like smell.
What is the best way to grate Pecorino Romano?
A microplane grater is ideal for grating Pecorino Romano, as it produces fine, fluffy shreds that melt easily. You can also use a rotary grater or a box grater.
How long does Pecorino Romano last in the refrigerator?
Properly stored, Pecorino Romano can last for several weeks in the refrigerator. Watch for mold, changes in texture, or off-putting odors.
Can I freeze Pecorino Romano?
Freezing Pecorino Romano is not recommended, as it can alter the texture and flavor of the cheese. However, if necessary, grate the cheese before freezing and store it in an airtight container.
What wines pair well with Pecorino Romano?
Pecorino Romano pairs well with crisp white wines like Vermentino and Pinot Grigio, as well as light-bodied red wines like Chianti.
Is Pecorino Romano a DOP cheese?
Yes, Pecorino Romano is a Denominazione di Origine Protetta (DOP) cheese, which means that it is protected by law and must be produced according to strict regulations in a specific geographic area.
What dishes is Pecorino Romano commonly used in?
Pecorino Romano is a key ingredient in classic Roman dishes like cacio e pepe, pasta alla gricia, and pasta all’Amatriciana. It’s also used as a grating cheese on salads, soups, and other dishes.
Is Pecorino Romano vegetarian?
While Pecorino Romano itself is made from sheep’s milk, the rennet used in its production may or may not be vegetarian. Check the label or inquire with the seller to determine if it’s suitable for vegetarians.
Why is Pecorino Romano so salty?
The saltiness of Pecorino Romano is due to the traditional cheesemaking process, which involves brining the cheese in a salt solution. This process helps to preserve the cheese and develop its characteristic flavor.