Alfredo sauce is a creamy, rich sauce that is typically served over pasta. It is said to have originated in Rome, Italy, in the early 20th century, and is made with butter, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese.
KRAFT Parmesan cheese, on the other hand, is a popular brand of Parmesan cheese that is readily available in most grocery stores. Many people enjoy using it as a topping for pasta dishes and as a flavorful ingredient in a variety of recipes.
The purpose of this article is to explore whether KRAFT Parmesan cheese can be used in Alfredo sauce.
We will take a look at the science of cheese and sauce, discuss the role of cheese in Alfredo sauce, and compare KRAFT Parmesan cheese with traditional parmesan cheese used in Alfredo sauce.
The Science of Cheese and Sauce
Alfredo sauce is made by heating butter and heavy cream together in a pan, and then adding grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese is then stirred until it is completely melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
The role of cheese in Alfredo sauce is to provide a rich, nutty flavor, as well as to thicken the sauce. Parmesan cheese, in particular, is known for its strong, distinct flavor and is often considered the best cheese to use in Alfredo sauce.
When it comes to KRAFT Parmesan cheese, it’s not a 100% Parmesan cheese like the traditional one, it’s mostly made of cellulose powder, which is derived from wood pulp and added to prevent clumping and extend shelf life.
However, it does contain some Parmesan cheese, and it does have a similar taste and texture to traditional Parmesan cheese.
Comparison of KRAFT Parmesan Cheese with Traditional Parmesan Cheese
While KRAFT Parmesan cheese does have a similar taste and texture to traditional Parmesan cheese, there are some differences to consider.
Traditional Parmesan cheese is made from raw cow’s milk and aged for at least 12 months. It has a sharper, nuttier flavor, and a harder texture.
KRAFT Parmesan cheese, on the other hand, is made from pasteurized milk and aged for a shorter period of time. It has a milder flavor and a softer texture.
When it comes to using KRAFT Parmesan cheese in Alfredo sauce, it can be a matter of personal preference. Some people may prefer the sharper, nuttier flavor of traditional parmesan cheese, while others may prefer the milder flavor of KRAFT Parmesan cheese.
KRAFT Parmesan Cheese in Alfredo Sauce
KRAFT Parmesan cheese can be used in Alfredo sauce in the same way that traditional parmesan cheese is used.
It can be grated and added to the sauce after the butter and cream have been heated together. The cheese will melt and thicken the sauce as it cooks.
There are a few pros and cons to using KRAFT Parmesan cheese in Alfredo sauce. One pro is that it is readily available and easy to find in most grocery stores.
It is also less expensive than traditional parmesan cheese. Another pro is that it has a milder flavor, which may be more appealing to some people.
On the downside, KRAFT Parmesan cheese is not made from raw cow’s milk and aged for 12 months, which means that it lacks the complex nutty, sharp and tangy flavor of traditional Parmesan cheese.
Moreover, as previously mentioned, it contains cellulose powder which is a common anti-caking agent that is added to cheese as filler to extend shelf life, some people may not appreciate this.
Taste and Texture Comparison
When it comes to the taste and texture of Alfredo sauce made with KRAFT Parmesan cheese compared to traditional parmesan cheese, there are some differences to consider.
Alfredo sauce made with traditional parmesan cheese will have a sharper, nuttier flavor, and a thicker, creamier texture. Alfredo sauce made with KRAFT Parmesan cheese, on the other hand, will have a milder flavor and a softer texture.
Tips for Making Alfredo Sauce with KRAFT Parmesan Cheese
Here are a few tips for making Alfredo sauce with KRAFT Parmesan cheese:
- Start by heating the butter and cream in a pan over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted and the cream is hot, add the grated KRAFT Parmesan cheese.
- Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If you find that the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a little more cream or milk.
Variations and Additions
Alfredo sauce can be a versatile base for many different variations and additions. For example, you could add sautéed vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, or you could add cooked chicken or shrimp.
You could also add a splash of white wine or lemon juice for a little extra flavor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, KRAFT Parmesan cheese can be used in Alfredo sauce, but the taste and texture may be slightly different from traditional parmesan cheese. KRAFT Parmesan cheese is readily available, easy to find and less expensive than traditional parmesan cheese.
However, it lacks the complex nutty, sharp and tangy flavor of traditional Parmesan cheese and contains cellulose powder which is a common anti-caking agent that is added to cheese as filler to extend shelf life.
It’s a matter of personal preference, but for a more authentic flavor and texture, traditional parmesan cheese is recommended.
We hope this article has been informative and has helped you understand the possibilities of using KRAFT Parmesan cheese in Alfredo sauce. We encourage you to try making Alfredo sauce with KRAFT Parmesan cheese and share your results with us.
How does KRAFT Parmesan cheese compare to traditional parmesan cheese in terms of taste and texture?
KRAFT Parmesan cheese has a milder flavor compared to traditional parmesan cheese, which has a sharper, nuttier flavor. The texture of Alfredo sauce made with KRAFT Parmesan cheese will be softer than that made with traditional parmesan cheese.
Can I use KRAFT Parmesan cheese for other Italian dishes besides Alfredo sauce?
Yes, KRAFT Parmesan cheese can be used for other Italian dishes such as spaghetti, lasagna, and pizza. It can be grated and sprinkled over the top of the dish for added flavor and texture.
Is KRAFT Parmesan cheese gluten-free?
KRAFT Parmesan cheese is gluten-free. However, as with any product, it’s always best to check the label to make sure it meets your dietary needs.
Is KRAFT Parmesan cheese suitable for vegetarians?
KRAFT Parmesan cheese is not suitable for vegetarians as it contains animal rennet, which is a byproduct of animal digestion.
Can I use KRAFT Parmesan cheese in Alfredo sauce if I’m on a low-fat diet?
Alfredo sauce is traditionally made with butter and cream, which are high in fat. While KRAFT Parmesan cheese can be used in Alfredo sauce, it may not be suitable for those on a low-fat diet.
An alternative would be to use low-fat milk or cream in place of the butter and cream. Additionally, you could try using a low-fat substitute for parmesan cheese.