Prolonging Provolone: How Long Does It Last?

Provolone cheese is a semi-hard Italian cheese made from cow's milk. It has a creamy texture and a mild, tangy flavour. It is a versatile cheese that can be used in sandwiches, pizzas, pasta, and as a table cheese. The shelf life of provolone cheese depends on various factors such as storage conditions, packaging, and the type of provolone cheese. Proper storage techniques such as maintaining the right temperature and humidity can extend the shelf life of the cheese. In this article, we will explore the shelf life of provolone cheese and provide tips for optimal storage to ensure its freshness and quality.

Provolone cheese storage

Provolone cheese is a semi-hard Italian cheese with a rich and creamy flavour. It is a popular choice for melting and is often used in sandwiches, pizzas, pasta dishes, and as a table cheese. Proper storage of provolone cheese is essential to maintain its flavour and texture. Here are some detailed instructions for storing provolone cheese:

Refrigerator vs Pantry

The ideal temperature for storing provolone cheese is between 35°F and 45°F (1.7°C and 7.2°C). This temperature range helps slow down the growth of bacteria and extends the cheese's shelf life. You can achieve this temperature by storing the cheese in a refrigerator or a cool pantry. The refrigerator is the most common choice as it provides a controlled environment with a consistent temperature. However, the pantry is an option if you plan to consume the cheese within a few days. Ensure the pantry is cool, dry, and away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

Humidity

Humidity is another important factor when storing provolone cheese. The ideal humidity level is around 70-80%. This helps prevent the cheese from drying out or becoming too moist. To maintain the proper humidity level, you can use a cheese storage container or a cheese cave. These specialised containers help regulate humidity and create an optimal environment.

Packaging

When purchasing provolone cheese, choose a package that is well-sealed and airtight. For long-term storage, transfer the cheese to a cheese storage bag or wrap it in cheese paper. Cheese storage bags regulate moisture, preventing the cheese from drying out or becoming too moist. Cheese paper allows the cheese to age properly, maintaining its texture and flavour. Avoid using plastic wrap or aluminium foil as they can trap moisture and lead to mould growth.

Expiration Date

Always check the expiration date on the provolone cheese package. Provolone cheese typically has a shelf life of several weeks to a few months, depending on the variety and storage conditions. Consume the cheese before the expiration date to ensure the best taste and quality.

Freezing

If you have a large quantity of provolone cheese, consider freezing it to extend its shelf life. Wrap the cheese tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil and place it in an airtight freezer bag. Frozen provolone cheese will maintain its highest quality within the first 8 months of freezing. When thawing, transfer the cheese to the refrigerator and allow it to defrost slowly overnight.

Signs of Spoilage

It is important to know the signs of spoiled provolone cheese. If you notice any mould growth, discard the cheese. Additionally, if the cheese develops an off-putting odour, such as a strong ammonia smell, or becomes excessively dry, crumbly, or slimy, it is best to discard it.

By following these instructions, you can ensure that your provolone cheese stays fresh and flavourful for longer.

How long does sliced provolone cheese last?

Sliced provolone cheese will last for 2 to 3 weeks in the refrigerator. This is the case whether you purchased pre-sliced cheese or sliced a block of provolone yourself. To maximize its shelf life, it's important to keep the cheese refrigerated at all times and ensure proper storage conditions.

When storing sliced provolone cheese, it's best to keep it in its original store packaging if it's unopened. If the package has been opened, wrap the cheese tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. For even better protection, wrap the cheese first in wax or parchment paper and then cover it with plastic wrap before refrigerating. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out or absorbing odours from the refrigerator.

To further extend the shelf life of sliced provolone cheese, you can freeze it. Place the cheese in the freezer before the number of days shown for refrigerator storage has elapsed. When freezing, wrap the cheese tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil, plastic freezer wrap, or place it inside a heavy-duty freezer bag. Properly stored, sliced provolone cheese will maintain its best quality for about 2 months in the freezer but will remain safe beyond that time.

It's important to note that frozen cheese may become crumbly and lose some of its flavour. Therefore, it's best suited for cooked dishes, such as sauces, soups, and casseroles. After defrosting, sliced provolone cheese can be kept for an additional 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.

To identify if your sliced provolone cheese has gone bad, look for any signs of spoilage, such as mold, an off smell, or a change in texture. If the cheese becomes excessively dry, crumbly, or slimy, it's best to discard it.

How to store a chunk of provolone cheese

To store a chunk of provolone cheese, it is important to maintain a consistent and optimal temperature to preserve the quality and flavour of the cheese. The ideal temperature range for storing provolone cheese is between 35°F and 45°F (1.7°C and 7.2°C). It should be noted that extreme temperatures can adversely affect the cheese. High temperatures can cause the cheese to melt, lose its shape, and develop a greasy texture, while very low temperatures can make the cheese excessively hard and compromise its flavour. Therefore, it is recommended to store the cheese in a refrigerator or a cool pantry to maintain the ideal temperature.

In addition to temperature control, humidity plays a crucial role in provolone cheese storage. The ideal humidity level is around 70-80%. This helps to prevent the cheese from drying out or becoming too moist. To maintain the desired humidity level, consider using a cheese storage container or a cheese cave, which are designed to regulate humidity and create the optimal environment for storing provolone cheese.

When purchasing provolone cheese, it is important to choose a package that is well-sealed and airtight. This prevents air and moisture from entering and causing spoilage. While some provolone cheese varieties come wrapped in plastic or wax paper, it is recommended to transfer the cheese to a cheese storage bag or wrap it in cheese paper for long-term storage. Cheese storage bags regulate moisture, allowing the cheese to breathe and maintain its moisture balance. Cheese paper, on the other hand, helps the cheese age properly while preserving its texture and flavour.

To store a chunk of provolone cheese in the refrigerator, it is important to wrap it correctly. Avoid using plastic wrap or aluminium foil as they can trap moisture and lead to mould growth. Instead, opt for cheese paper or wax paper, which allow the cheese to breathe while protecting it from unwanted fridge odours. Cut a piece of cheese paper or wax paper slightly larger than the cheese, place the cheese in the centre, and secure the edges with tape or a rubber band.

If you wish to extend the shelf life of provolone cheese, freezing is a viable option. However, it is important to note that freezing can alter the texture of the cheese, making it slightly crumbly or drier. Therefore, it is recommended to use frozen provolone cheese in cooked dishes such as casseroles, soups, or sauces. To freeze a chunk of provolone cheese, cut it into portions no larger than half a pound each, and wrap them tightly in heavy-duty aluminium foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place them inside a heavy-duty freezer bag.

Signs of spoiled provolone cheese

Fresh provolone cheese has a pale yellowish-white colour and a smooth, slightly rubbery texture. However, there are several signs to look out for that indicate the cheese has spoiled.

Hard Texture

A reliable indicator of spoilage is a change in texture. Fresh provolone should be smooth and slightly rubbery, but if it becomes very hard, it is likely no longer safe to eat.

Dark Colour

If the colour of the cheese has darkened, turning more yellow or even brown, this is a warning sign that the cheese is no longer safe for consumption.

Strong Smell

Provolone cheese is known for its mild, slightly tangy or nutty scent. If the cheese gives off an unusual or unpleasant odour, particularly resembling ammonia or sewage, this indicates spoilage.

Mould

If there is mould on the surface of the provolone cheese, it should be discarded immediately. While some types of cheese naturally contain mould, provolone should not have any visible mould growth. If you notice green, blue, or black spots on the surface, this is a clear sign that the cheese has spoiled.

Freezing provolone cheese

Provolone cheese can be frozen to extend its shelf life. However, it's important to note that freezing will affect the texture and flavour of the cheese. Frozen cheese tends to become crumbly and mealy, and may lose some of its flavour. Therefore, it is best suited for cooked dishes, such as sauces, soups, and casseroles, rather than being served on its own.

When freezing provolone cheese, it is recommended to cut the cheese into portions no larger than half a pound each. Wrap the cheese tightly in heavy-duty aluminium foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place it inside a heavy-duty freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing it.

The length of time that provolone cheese can be frozen depends on the packaging method. Vacuum sealing can preserve the cheese for up to two months, while wrapping it in parchment paper and then in aluminium foil will keep it for about one month. If using a freezer bag, it is recommended to thaw the cheese after two weeks of storage.

To thaw frozen provolone cheese, place it in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 12 hours. It is best to use the thawed cheese within 3 to 4 days, as it will become crumbly and lose flavour over time. The thawed cheese is best suited for cooked dishes rather than being served raw.

By following these steps, you can effectively freeze provolone cheese and extend its shelf life while minimising the impact on its texture and flavour.

Frequently asked questions