Cheese Rind

The outer edges, furthest away from the center, of cheese that has been formed into a disk or wheel of cheese. On some types of cheese, the outside of the cheese is often a wax coating covering the Rind which is the section closest to the outside that begins to harden as the cheese ages. Since the hardened Rind is not considered to be good for eating or grating, it often cut from the cheese and used as a seasoning for foods. The Rind from Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese is very popular as a flavoring to be added to soups, stews, dried beans, soup broth, and canned or fresh vegetables. To save the Rind for future use, wrap it in airtight plastic and freeze.