Season 3 Episode 16: Emilia D'Albero, Punk Rock Parmigiano
In this episode, we meet an extraordinary guest, Emilia D'Albero, also known as Punk Rock Parmigiano. Emilia is a cheesemonger and educator with a decade of experience navigating the cheesy waters of New York City's finest cheese counters. So, buckle up as we unravel the curds and whey of cheese expertise with Emilia!
From Italian Studies to Cheesemonger Extraordinaire
Emilia's journey to becoming a cheese aficionado began unexpectedly. With a degree in Italian studies, her career took an initial turn into event management for an Italian cooking school. But it wasn't long before Emilia decided she craved something more tangible, something she could truly sink her teeth into. Thus, cheesemongering beckoned—a craft combining manual labor, science, and a splash of magic.
The King of Cheese: Parmigiano Reggiano
In a candid chat, a pressing question: if she had to choose just one cheese for the rest of her life, what would it be? Without hesitation, Emilia crowned Parmigiano Reggiano as the king of cheeses. "Versatile, flavorful, and an absolute champ in the cheese world," she extolled.
The Art and Science of Cheesemaking
Being a cheesemonger isn't just about slinging cheese across the counter. It's a craft rooted in both art and science. Emilia explained that cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano require intricate techniques to crack open, and shared tips on how to store cheese properly (hint: plastic wrap is the enemy!). The goal? To honor and respect the craftsmanship that goes into every wheel of cheese, from the farm to your table.
The Cheesemonger Invitational: The Olympics of Cheese
Ever wondered if there's a competition for cheesemongers? There is, and Emilia is a champion! The Cheesemonger Invitational is like the Olympics for cheese lovers. From identifying cheeses blindfolded to cutting them perfectly, it's a rigorous test of skill and knowledge. Winning this prestigious title is no small feat, and it solidifies Emilia's position as a top-tier cheesemonger.
Taking Cheese Education Online
During the pandemic, Emilia found a creative outlet in TikTok, where she began posting videos about cheese. Her content quickly went viral, filling a niche with engaging and educational cheese videos. From cracking open wheels to discussing cheese pairings, Emilia has built a thriving online community, proving that cheese can be both accessible and exciting.
Cheese for Everyone
One of Emilia's core beliefs is that cheese should be accessible to all. It’s not just for the elite dinner parties; it's for the everyday person looking to enjoy a delicious snack. Through her work, both in person and online, Emilia strives to make cheese less intimidating and more enjoyable for everyone.
Bodega Snack Cheese Pairings
To wrap things up, we had some fun with a rapid-fire cheese pairing session. Here are a few highlights:
- **Salt and Vinegar Chips:** Pair with an aged pecorino for those briny, oceany vibes.
- **Hot Fries:** Try a ripe Harbison to balance the spice with some creamy goodness.
- **Plantain Chips:** While versatile on their own, Stilton makes a great pairing.
- **Tate's Chocolate Chip Cookies:** Perfect with Delista Borgogna or any triple cream.
- **Cherry Fruit Pies:** Castelbelbo complements the sweetness with its creamy texture.
Emilia’s passion for cheese and tireless dedication to her craft shine through in every aspect of her work. From her engaging TikTok videos to her impressive knowledge and skill, she’s changing the way people think about and enjoy cheese. So, the next time you’re at the cheese counter, remember Emilia’s advice: don’t be afraid to ask questions and explore new flavors. After all, cheese is for everyone!
Stay connected with Emilia on TikTok (@punkrockparmigiano) and Instagram (@mdalbero) for more cheesy content.
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Follow on Instagram for some behind the scenes and short form content here.
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