Hello dear friends. Welcome back to Flavors and Knowledge, the practical culinary education podcast.
I am your host chef Walter Potenza. In this episode, we will explore one of Italy's great cheeses: Grana Padano.
Grana Padano is a complex, semi-fat Italian cheese that has been a staple of Italian cuisine for over 1,000 years. It is made from cow's milk and is often compared to Parmigiano-Reggiano due to its similar texture, taste, and production process. Grana Padano is named after the Padana Valley in Northern Italy, where it originated.
The production process for Grana Padano is a time-honored tradition that has been passed down for several generations. The process starts with milking the cows, which is done twice daily to ensure the milk is fresh. The milk is then transferred to large copper vats, which are heated and mixed with natural rennet.
The rennet helps to solidify the milk and form curds, which are then cut and left to settle for a few hours. Once the curds have settled, they are scooped out of the vats and placed into the appropriate molds. The molds are heavily pressed to remove excess whey and shape the cheese. The cheese is left in the molds for a day, after which it is removed and placed in a saltwater bath for around 20 days. This process helps to give the cheese its unique flavor and texture.
After the cheese has been salted, it is left to mature for at least nine months. The cheese is carefully monitored and turned regularly during this time to ensure even aging. The longer the cheese is aged, the more intense its flavor becomes. Grana Padano usually ages around 18-24 months, although some producers age it up to 36 months.
Grana Padano is a very adaptable cheese used in various dishes. It is often grated over pasta dishes, soups, and risottos or served as a table cheese alongside cured meats and bread. It pairs well with red wines, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, and is also a great addition to salads and sandwiches. Regarding nutrition, cheese is a good protein, calcium, and vitamin A source. It is also relatively low in fat, around 30% less than Parmigiano-Reggiano. This makes it an excellent option for those looking to maintain a healthy, stable diet without sacrificing flavor.
In conclusion, dear friends, Remember gastronomy is an endless journey of discovery, and every dish holds its tale. So, keep exploring, experimenting, and embracing the flavors that make our world enchanting and diverse.

For all details, recipes, and news, please follow the links on the show notes. walterpotenza.substack.com
www.flavorsandknowledge.com
EAT WELL AND STAY SAFE!

Ver todos los episodios