Pecorino Romano is a flavorful and salty Italian cheese made from sheep’s milk. It has been used in Italian cuisine for centuries, particularly in pasta dishes like spaghetti carbonara, cacio e pepe, and pasta alla gricia. However, due to its strong and distinct flavor, some people may find it too overpowering. Or, they may be looking for a substitute because it’s not available in their local grocery store. In this article, we’ll explore six of the best substitutes for Pecorino Romano cheese that you can use in your favorite pasta dishes or other recipes.
What is Pecorino Romano Cheese?
Pecorino Romano cheese is a hard, dense cheese made from sheep’s milk. It has a sharp, salty taste that makes it perfect for grating and adding flavor to a variety of dishes. The cheese is typically white or pale yellow in color, and its crumbly texture sets it apart from other cheeses.
Its intense salty flavor becomes more pronounced as it ages. The cheese takes its name from the Italian word “pecorino,” meaning sheep, and its history dates back to the Roman era when it was a staple food. Today, it is one of the most famous Italian cheeses known worldwide.
Best Pecorino Romano Cheese Substitutes
1. Parmigiano-Reggiano
Parmigiano-Reggiano is a hard, nutty, and slightly salty cheese that’s made from cow’s milk. It’s the most famous cheese in Italy and is often used as a substitute for Pecorino Romano because of its similar texture and taste.
While Parmigiano-Reggiano is not made from sheep’s milk, it still has a similar salty and savory flavor that can stand up to bold pasta dishes. It’s also widely available in most grocery stores and can be easily grated or shaved to add to your favorite pasta dishes.
2. Asiago
Asiago is a semi-hard cheese that’s made from cow’s milk and is originally from Italy. It has a nutty and buttery flavor with a slight sharpness that makes it a good substitute for Pecorino Romano.
Asiago cheese can be used in both hot and cold pasta dishes and can be grated or sliced. It’s also a good option for those who may be sensitive to sheep’s milk products.
3. Grana Padano
Grana Padano is a hard, granular cheese that’s made from cow’s milk and is often referred to as the “younger brother” of Parmigiano-Reggiano. It has a milder flavor than Pecorino Romano but still has a nutty and slightly salty taste. Grana Padano is also widely available in most grocery stores and can be grated or shaved to add to your favorite pasta dishes.
4. Manchego
Manchego is a semi-hard cheese that’s made from sheep’s milk and is originally from Spain. It has a nutty and buttery flavor with a slightly tangy aftertaste that makes it a good substitute for Pecorino Romano.
Manchego cheese can be used in both hot and cold pasta dishes and can be grated or sliced. It’s also a good option for those who want to try something different from Italian cheeses.
5. Dry Jack
Dry Jack is a hard, nutty, and slightly sweet cheese that’s made from cow’s milk and is originally from California. It has a similar texture and taste to Pecorino Romano and can be used as a substitute in pasta dishes. Dry Jack cheese can be grated or shaved and is also a good option for those who may be sensitive to sheep’s milk products.
6. Sbrinz
Sbrinz is a hard cheese that’s made from cow’s milk and is originally from Switzerland. It has a nutty and slightly sweet flavor with a slightly grainy texture that makes it a good substitute for Pecorino Romano. Sbrinz cheese can be grated or shaved and is also a good option for those who want to try something different from Italian cheeses.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pecorino Romano cheese is a popular ingredient in Italian cuisine, but there are many substitutes available if you’re looking for something different or if it’s not available in your local grocery store.
Parmigiano-Reggiano, Asiago, Grana Padano, Manchego, Dry Jack, and Sbrinz are all good substitutes that can add a similar salty and savory flavor to your pasta dishes. Whether you’re looking to try something new or just need a substitute, there are plenty of options to choose from.