During its 50 years of independence, Argentina became a new home to many Italian farmers, who migrated in order to earn extra money for their families during the off-season. Some chose to stay, but missed their precious Parmigiano Reggiano and began making it locally using traditional methods.
Reggianito means little Reggiano because the wheel has been reduced to 15 lbs. from the enormous 80 lb. drum the Italians produce. The Argentinian wheels are smaller because it was too difficult for oxen to move enormous wheels great distances. Reggianito is cured longer than any other South American hard cheese, resulting in a rich, bountiful flavor. This cheese is slightly saltier than its namesake, but the white crystals in the cheese are not salt grains; they are crystallized free amino acids, which give the cheese its lovely grainy texture. Reggianito is perfect for cooking or grating over pasta. If you like Parmigiano Reggiano, be sure to try the Argentinian version.