Brie - This firm on the outside but gooey on the inside cheese comes from the Brie region in France, not far from Paris. However, there are also more specific kinds of Brie, such as Brie de Meaux or Brie de Melun, which come from specific areas and have a PDO or Protected Designation of Origin. This means that it can only be produced in that specific area and has to meet the requirements to keep to the standard and characteristics of the product name. Brie has a white edible rind that is made from mold and is integral when it comes to the cheese’s overall flavor and texture. It can be used for both sweet and savory dishes since it has a mild and slightly buttery taste.
Emmental - There are many versions of Emmental cheese made in France, Germany, and other countries, however, Emmental cheese originally comes from Switzerland. It is the key ingredient in a Swiss fondue and is also used in different dishes such as gratins and omelets. It has a nutty flavor which can intensify depending on how long it has been aged. The aging process can be anywhere from 4 months to up to a year. When it comes to texture, it is firm but has an elastic texture, especially when heated. Its key characteristic in terms of looks is that it has holes throughout the cheese. They are referred to as ‘eyes’, which are a product of the fermentation process.
Parmesan - Parmesan cheese, also known as Parmigiano-Reggiano, is an Italian cheese with a long history that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is made with raw cow’s milk and is aged for a minimum of 12 months. It has a rich and nutty flavor with a hard and crumbly texture. The taste and texture can also depend on how long the cheese is aged. A traditional wheel of Parmesan weighs around 30-40kg and can be left to mature for up to 48 months. Parmigiano-Reggiano also has a PDO, which means you should be wary of Parmesan cheeses that are made outside of Europe, as they may be inauthentic. Parmesan is not only used in pasta dishes but also grated over salads and soups or eaten on its own with bread and fruit.
