The Best Way To Store Mozzarella Cheese At Home

Mozzarella is a soft cheese that doesn't last as long as harder cheeses. Fresh mozzarella, stored in the fridge, will last for up to a week past its date and for three days to a week after opening. If unopened, it can last for four to six weeks. However, if you want to extend its shelf life, you can freeze it.

Fresh mozzarella lasts 3-7 days after opening

Fresh mozzarella is a soft cheese, and as such, it doesn't last as long as harder cheeses. How long it lasts depends on how it is stored. If you've bought it from a store, it may have come in an airtight container with liquid at the bottom. This liquid is whey, a byproduct of the cheese-making process. Keeping the cheese in this liquid will help to keep it moist. If the liquid level gets low, you can top it up with water or a mixture of water and salt. If you're storing the cheese in water, change the water every day.

If your mozzarella came in a vacuum-sealed package, you can transfer it to a bowl of cold water and store it in the fridge. Change the water every day.

If you wrap your mozzarella in plastic wrap, it will last for 3-4 days. Make sure the wrap is tight so that the cheese doesn't dry out.

You can also store mozzarella in the freezer. If you do this, take the cheese out of the freezer and leave it for one to two hours before eating it.

Regardless of the storage method, fresh mozzarella lasts 3-7 days after opening.

Unopened mozzarella blocks last 2-3 weeks past the date on the label

The date on the label is usually about two to three months from the packaging date. It's best to store mozzarella in the fridge, and it's important to keep it wrapped so that it doesn't dry out. If you can use the original plastic wrap to do this, that's great. Otherwise, use plastic wrap or cheese wrap, and make sure the cheese is well wrapped. A plastic bag can also work; just remember to remove all the air before sealing it.

If you need to store your mozzarella for longer than 2-3 weeks, you can grate the leftovers and freeze them. An unopened frozen mozzarella will last up to six months after the use-by date, but the minimum will still be between two to four months.

Store mozzarella in the fridge for up to 5 days

Storing mozzarella correctly is important to keep it tasting and feeling fresh. When stored properly, mozzarella can last for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Firstly, it's important to note that mozzarella should always be kept in the fridge. Fresh mozzarella is best kept on the middle shelf of the fridge, and the fridge temperature should be kept between 34 and 40 °F (1 and 4 °C).

If your fresh mozzarella came in an airtight container with liquid at the bottom, it's best to keep it in this container to keep it moist. The liquid is whey, a byproduct of the cheese-making process, and can be replaced with water if it gets low. If your mozzarella was vacuum-packed, it's best to transfer it to a bowl of cold water, changing the water daily.

When stored in the fridge, fresh mozzarella will last for up to 5 days. It's best to eat it as soon as possible for the best taste and freshness. If you haven't opened the mozzarella, it can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.

It's important to note that fresh mozzarella should not be frozen, as this will negatively impact the texture and flavour.

Don't freeze fresh mozzarella

While it is possible to freeze fresh mozzarella, it is not recommended. Freezing fresh mozzarella can ruin its delicate texture and flavour.

Fresh mozzarella is best enjoyed within a day of production. It has a very mild, milky flavour and a soft, creamy texture. Freezing fresh mozzarella will cause it to lose its characteristic qualities.

When frozen, the high moisture content in soft mozzarellas can separate upon thawing, resulting in a crumbly or rubbery texture. The nuanced, fresh taste that these cheeses are known for may also be lost.

If you do choose to freeze fresh mozzarella, it is important to follow a certain procedure to minimise the impact on the cheese's texture and taste. First, remove the mozzarella from its original packaging and slice it into individual portions. Remove any excess moisture with a paper towel. Then, wrap the individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or cling film. Place the wrapped slices on a baking sheet and freeze for at least eight hours. Finally, transfer the frozen slices to a resealable freezer bag and store them in the freezer.

Even with proper freezing techniques, previously frozen fresh mozzarella is best suited for cooked dishes where texture changes are less noticeable, such as baked pasta dishes, pizza, or lasagna. It is not recommended for salads or sandwiches, as the freezing process can cause the cheese to become dry or grainy.

To summarise, while it is technically possible to freeze fresh mozzarella, it is generally not advisable due to the negative impact on its texture and flavour. It is best to enjoy fresh mozzarella within a few days of purchase to fully appreciate its unique qualities.

Fresh mozzarella can be frozen for 6 months

Fresh mozzarella is best enjoyed within a day of production. It has a very short shelf life and is best served at room temperature. Freezing mozzarella can ruin its texture as the water content freezes, making the cheese less creamy and soft.

However, if you have leftover mozzarella that you won't be able to eat before the use-by date, you can freeze it. Here is a step-by-step guide:

How to Freeze Fresh Mozzarella:

• Remove the mozzarella from its original packaging.
• Slice the mozzarella balls into individual portions.
• Remove the excess moisture using a paper towel.
• Wrap the individual cheese slices tightly in plastic wrap or cling film.
• Place the wrapped mozzarella slices on a baking sheet and put it in the freezer for at least eight hours.
• Transfer the frozen slices to a plastic bag, preferably a resealable freezer bag, to keep out the air and maintain freshness.
• Store the bag in the freezer for up to six months.

Tips for Using Frozen Mozzarella:

• It is best to use frozen mozzarella for cooked dishes such as baked pasta, pizza, or lasagna.
• Thaw the frozen mozzarella in the refrigerator overnight or for several hours until completely thawed. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent moisture loss and texture changes.
• The texture and taste of the mozzarella may change after freezing, so it is not recommended for salads or sandwiches.

By following these steps, you can extend the shelf life of fresh mozzarella and use it in cooked dishes whenever needed.

Frequently asked questions