Stromboli: The Perfect Cheese Combination For A Delicious Treat

Stromboli is a fun twist on classic pizza, with a variety of fillings rolled up in pizza dough. The dough is usually homemade or store-bought, and the fillings can include different types of meat, vegetables, and most importantly, cheese. Common cheeses used in stromboli include mozzarella, provolone, havarti, parmesan, and more.

Mozzarella

When using shredded mozzarella, it is recommended to use 1 to 1.5 cups per stromboli. If using sliced mozzarella, 8 to 10 slices per stromboli is ideal.

Stromboli is a versatile dish, and you can adjust the recipe to your liking. Feel free to experiment with different combinations of meats, cheeses, and other ingredients to create your perfect stromboli.

Provolone

When making stromboli, it's important to use sliced provolone from the deli counter rather than pre-packaged slices. This is because the deli slices are thicker and will create a more generous layer of cheese throughout your stromboli. They also tend to have more flavour and will create prettier layers when you cut into the stromboli.

If you're making a meat-free stromboli, it's especially important to use a generous amount of cheese to make up for the lack of meat. For a vegetarian stromboli, you'll want to use around 2 cups of cheese per stromboli. This can be a mix of cheeses—for example, you could use 6-8 large slices of provolone and 1 cup of mozzarella.

In addition to provolone, you can also add vegetables to your stromboli, such as cooked mushrooms, chopped broccoli, sliced peppers, spinach, or basil leaves. Just be sure to blot any excess moisture from the vegetables before adding them to your stromboli to prevent the dough from becoming soggy.

When assembling your stromboli, start by layering your meats and cheeses on top of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on the bottom and sides and a 3-inch border on the top. This will make it easier to roll up the dough without any of the fillings spilling out. Once you've added all your fillings, brush the edges of the dough with egg wash to help it stay sealed, then slowly roll it up into a tight log.

Once your stromboli is assembled, bake it in the oven at 400°F (204°C) for about 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into it, and serve it with a side of pizza or marinara sauce for dipping.

Parmesan

When adding Parmesan to stromboli, it is typically grated or shredded and mixed with the other fillings. It can be layered with the meats and other cheeses, or sprinkled on top before baking. Some recipes also suggest using Parmesan in an egg wash, which is brushed on top of the stromboli before baking to give it a shiny, golden-brown finish. This technique not only adds flavour but also helps to seal the dough and create a crispy exterior.

The amount of Parmesan used in stromboli can vary depending on taste preferences and the other ingredients used. However, it is generally used in smaller amounts compared to the main melting cheeses. This ensures that the Parmesan enhances the overall flavour without overwhelming the other ingredients.

In addition to its flavour and texture, Parmesan also has practical benefits in stromboli-making. Its sharp, salty flavour means that it can be used in smaller quantities, making it a cost-effective option. Additionally, its long shelf life means that it can be purchased in advance and stored for future use, making it a convenient choice for home cooks.

Havarti

When using Havarti in stromboli, it can be paired with other cheeses like mozzarella, Swiss cheese, or Muenster cheese. It can be combined with ingredients like roasted red peppers, prosciutto, red pepper flakes, basil, chicken, black beans, and corn to create a delicious and flavourful dish.

Romano

When making a stromboli with Romano cheese, it is important to consider the balance of flavours and textures. Romano cheese has a strong flavour, so it should be paired with other ingredients that can hold their own. Salami, ham, pepperoni, and vegetables such as spinach or roasted red peppers are all great options to include.

The process of making a stromboli with Romano cheese is similar to that of other strombolis. The dough is rolled out into a rectangle, and the fillings are layered on top. The Romano cheese can be shredded or sliced, depending on the desired consistency. The dough is then rolled up, sealed, and baked until golden brown.

Frequently asked questions