It is much easier to buy a bag of grated cheese at the supermarket, especially when we are not very expert in cooking or we have just enough time. However, many experts claim that it is better to grind it at home.
While you are in the supermarket picking up ingredients for your flagship recipe, you come to the dairy aisle … and the doubt appears. The recipe calls for grated cheese, but should we buy a whole block or a bag of the grated type? Is there a noticeable difference to choose one or the other? The most gourmets and with an exquisite palate assure that they are very different.
Grated cheese at home tastes better
It is not our impression. Since freshly grated cheese does not contain added preservatives or chemicals, it will taste fresher and creamier. In addition, it is grated at the same moment and when it contains fewer additives it is always a healthier option. In the grated supermarket types you can see white specks, which are part of these preservatives.
You will also realize that there are not all types of grated cheeses, so the variety is very scarce for recipes. However, if we decide to make it at home, any type can be added to the recipe. As long as it can be crumbled without losing its shape, of course. In this case, neither burrata nor Roquefort cheese would be good options.
On the other hand, the previously grated cheese contains preservatives, such as potato starch and natamycin, in charge of preventing the pieces from clumping together in the bag. That also means they do n’t melt too well when cooked. Freshly grated cheese lacks these additives, so the sauce will be less lumpy and much smoother.
And for those who prefer not to add more carbohydrates to their diet, the grating option at home is much better. Some grated cheeses contain added cellulose and carbohydrates. Cellulose is a plant fiber that is often included in foods to add texture and create volume. Although these fibers are said to be harmless, they add unnecessary carbohydrates to grated cheese.
Grating cheese at home is cheaper
Don’t let the price of a 250 gram block of cheese convince you to buy a 250 gram bag of cheese. You will actually get more cheese from a piece of cheese of the same weight. Shredded things actually cost more since we are paying for shredding. That bag of shredded cheese comes with a “convenience fee.” So buying a slice is a much better option for anyone on a budget or looking to get the most bang for their buck.
Plus, for anyone wanting an extra arm training session, using the grater will “tone” those triceps and biceps. But keep in mind that not all pre-grated cheeses are the same. If you must opt for the pre-grating option, see if the supermarket grates it on site. These fresher options generally have fewer preservatives and will work better than those in super-processed bags.
