Randy Chandler
When it comes to pizza, cheese is a crucial ingredient that can make or break the pie. While there are many types of cheese to choose from, mozzarella is the most popular and traditional choice for pizza due to its superior stretchability, browning properties, and mild yet creamy flavour. The quality of the cheese also plays a significant role in the overall taste of the pizza. In this regard, two brands stand out among pizza enthusiasts: Grande and Galbani. These cheeses are known for their ideal fat content, salt content, melting qualities, and overall flavour. However, other brands like Kraft, Sargento, and Boar's Head also offer good alternatives for shredded mozzarella. Additionally, factors such as moisture content and cheese type (shredded vs. block) can influence the pizza-making experience and the final product's texture and taste.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese Type | Mozzarella, Parmesan, Cheddar, Provolone, Monterey Jack |
| Texture | Super meltable and stretchable, silky |
| Flavor | Tangy, creamy, salty, mild, sharp |
| Moisture Content | Low moisture |
| Fat Content | Full-fat |
| Brands | Galbani, Grande, Kraft, Sargento, Tillamook, Boars Head, Great Value |
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What You'll Learn
Mozzarella is the best cheese for pizza
Meltability is a priority when it comes to pizza cheese. You want the cheese to spread out in a rich, gooey blanket over your pizza. Premature crust formation is a major fault. The cheese should ooze cleanly around the knife when you cut a slice, and you want every bite to have melty cheese that stretches away from the remaining slice in thin strands. Low-moisture mozzarella is the best option for meltability. While fresh mozzarella exudes water as it melts and becomes more soupy than melty, low-moisture mozzarella will stretch and stretch, yet still remain dry enough that the pizza crust remains intact.
For a wood-fired, soggy-in-the-middle, true Neapolitan pizza, a high-moisture, freshly made mozzarella is key. However, for most other pizza styles, including New York-style, crispy Greek style, bar pies, New Haven apizza, and even Chicago deep dish, low-moisture aged mozzarella is the cheese of choice.
When it comes to specific brands, Grande and Galbani are two popular choices for pizza cheese. Grande is known for its high-quality mozzarella, but it can be hard to find in retail stores. Galbani, on the other hand, is more widely available in grocery stores and offers a low-moisture whole milk mozzarella that is perfect for pizza.
In terms of preparation, it is generally recommended to shred or slice the mozzarella yourself, as pre-shredded cheese can have anti-caking agents or desiccating powders that affect the melt and mouthfeel of the cheese.
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Low-moisture mozzarella is better than fresh mozzarella
When it comes to choosing the best cheese for pizza, mozzarella is often the go-to option. However, there is more than one type of mozzarella, and each variety has its own unique characteristics and benefits. While fresh mozzarella has its charms, low-moisture mozzarella stands out as the superior choice for several compelling reasons.
One of the primary advantages of low-moisture mozzarella is its exceptional meltability. This variety of mozzarella is designed to stretch and melt effortlessly, resulting in those irresistible, gooey cheese pulls that pizza lovers crave. In contrast, fresh mozzarella tends to exude water as it melts, leading to a soupier texture that can compromise the integrity of the pizza crust. By opting for low-moisture mozzarella, you can achieve the perfect balance between stretchiness and dryness, ensuring that your pizza maintains its structural integrity while delivering the desired cheesy goodness.
The longer shelf life of low-moisture mozzarella is another significant benefit. Fresh mozzarella is highly perishable, with an optimal consumption window of just a few days after production. On the other hand, low-moisture mozzarella can be refrigerated for weeks, making it a more economical and convenient option for pizzerias and home cooks alike. This extended shelf life also allows for easier transportation and bulk purchasing, contributing to overall cost savings.
Flavor-wise, low-moisture mozzarella offers a saltier and denser taste experience. The ageing process and controlled drying environment contribute to the development of tangy notes reminiscent of aged cheeses. This added depth of flavour can elevate the overall taste of the pizza. Additionally, the lower moisture content lends itself to better browning abilities, resulting in a more visually appealing pizza with a delightful crispiness.
While fresh mozzarella is traditionally used in true Neapolitan-style pizzas, low-moisture mozzarella is the preferred choice for a wide range of pizza styles. From the beloved New York-style pizza to the crispy Greek style, bar pies, New Haven apizza, and even the hearty Chicago deep-dish pies, low-moisture mozzarella reigns supreme. Its versatility and adaptability to different pizza-making techniques make it a reliable and consistent choice for pizza enthusiasts across the United States.
When selecting low-moisture mozzarella, it is worth noting that the quality can vary. Opting for well-known brands such as Galbani, Grande, Polly-O, Boar's Head, Sargento, or Kraft can ensure a superior mozzarella experience. However, it is always advisable to shred or slice the cheese yourself to avoid the additives and potential graininess associated with pre-shredded cheese.
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Sargento is a good brand of shredded mozzarella
When it comes to pizza, cheese is a pivotal ingredient. While there are many types of cheese to choose from, mozzarella is a classic choice. For those who want to skip the step of shredding their own block of cheese, Sargento is a good option for shredded mozzarella.
Sargento's shredded mozzarella is a convenient choice for pizza lovers. The cheese is shredded fresh from blocks of real, natural cheese and comes in an 8-ounce package, providing 2 cups of shredded cheese. It is a low-moisture part-skim mozzarella, which is ideal for pizza as it melts better than fresh mozzarella. Fresh mozzarella has a higher moisture content, which can cause your pizza to become soggy during the baking process. Sargento's shredded mozzarella also has a mild flavour and melts easily, making it a versatile choice for other dishes such as pasta, casseroles, and appetizers.
Sargento's shredded mozzarella is available in different cuts, including traditional and fine cuts. The traditional cut has thicker shreds, while the fine cut provides a delicate texture. The traditional cut is preferred by those who want a stronger texture, while the fine cut is better for those who want a smoother, more even melt.
While some may argue that shredding your own block of cheese provides the best results, Sargento's shredded mozzarella is a convenient and tasty alternative. It is a good choice for those who want a cheese that melts easily and has a mild flavour. Additionally, the packaging is designed to keep the cheese fresh, with an easy-open and close feature.
Overall, Sargento's shredded mozzarella is a reliable choice for those seeking convenience and quality. It is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes and provides a good balance of flavour and texture. While some may prefer other brands or the experience of shredding their own cheese, Sargento is a good option for those who want a consistent and tasty shredded mozzarella.
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Kraft's fat-free shredded mozzarella is tasty
When it comes to pizza, cheese is a key ingredient, and choosing the right one can elevate your pie to the next level. While full-fat mozzarella is often considered the best option for pizza, Kraft's fat-free shredded mozzarella is a tasty alternative that delivers on flavour and texture.
Kraft's fat-free shredded mozzarella stands out for several reasons. Firstly, it defies the common perception that fat-free cheese lacks flavour. This mozzarella has a tangy, slightly sharp taste that satisfies the palate. While some may find it a bit too salty or detect a slight bitter or sour aftertaste, overall, it delivers a pleasant cheesy experience.
The texture of Kraft's fat-free shredded mozzarella is also noteworthy. While it may not be as creamy as its full-fat counterpart, it still achieves a satisfactory level of creaminess, especially for those accustomed to fat-free cheese options. The shreds melt well, avoiding the graininess that can sometimes occur with pre-shredded cheese, and the end result is a stretchy, cheesy delight.
Kraft's fat-free shredded mozzarella is also a convenient and versatile option. Available in a 7 oz pouch or bag, it's easy to store and use. It's perfect for pizza, of course, but it can also be used in a variety of other dishes, adding a tasty cheesy element to your meals without the fat.
So, if you're looking for a tasty, fat-free cheese option for your pizza, Kraft's fat-free shredded mozzarella is definitely worth considering. It proves that you don't have to sacrifice flavour and texture when opting for a healthier choice. With its tanginess, meltability, and stretch, it ticks all the boxes for a satisfying pizza experience.
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Blending mozzarella with Parmesan, cheddar, or provolone
When it comes to pizza, cheese is the star of the show. While mozzarella is the most popular choice for a pizza base, blending it with other cheeses like Parmesan, cheddar, or provolone can take your pizza to the next level.
Mozzarella and Parmesan
Parmesan is a hard, aged cheese with a strong, nutty flavor. When blended with mozzarella, it adds a punch of flavor to your pizza. The standard blending ratio is 80% mozzarella and 20% Parmesan, but you can adjust this ratio to suit your taste. This blend is a favorite among pizzerias, as it creates a unique flavor profile that keeps customers coming back for more.
Mozzarella and Cheddar
Cheddar brings a sharp, tangy flavor to the mildness of mozzarella. A blend of these two cheeses creates a delicious combination that enhances the overall taste of your pizza. The standard ratio for this blend is usually 80% mozzarella and 10% cheddar, but you can customize it to your preference.
Mozzarella and Provolone
Provolone is a mild, creamy cheese that pairs perfectly with mozzarella. This blend is a popular choice for pizzerias, as it offers a balanced flavor and the perfect amount of stretch and browning. The typical ratio for this blend is 80% mozzarella and 20% provolone, but feel free to experiment with different ratios to find your ideal flavor.
Remember, when creating your perfect pizza, think of the cheese as a variable topping. Consider blends that enhance the other toppings and focus on flavor, texture, and the overall harmony of the pizza. With a little experimentation, you can create a unique and unforgettable pizza that will keep your taste buds asking for more!
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Frequently asked questions
The best cheese brand for pizza depends on the type of pizza and personal preference. However, the two dominant brands used in most pizzerias are Galbani and Grande. Galbani is praised for its tanginess, while Grande is known for its fresh cheeses like fior di latte, which are excellent for Neapolitan-style pizza.
Mozzarella is the classic choice for pizza due to its meltability, stretchiness, and mild yet creamy flavour. When selecting mozzarella, opt for low-moisture varieties to prevent a soggy pizza. Full-fat, whole milk mozzarella melts and browns better than part-skim varieties.
While mozzarella is the standard, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone, Monterey Jack, Parmesan, or cheddar. Blending multiple cheeses can add depth of flavour to your pizza. Ricotta, a fresh and creamy cheese, pairs well with mozzarella, especially on white pizzas without tomato sauce.
In addition to Galbani and Grande, several other cheese brands are recommended for pizza. Sargento, known for its salty and mellow flavour, melts incredibly well. Kraft's fat-free shredded mozzarella offers a tangy and slightly sharp flavour. For a creamier option, try Kraft's Creamy Melt made with Philadelphia or Sargento's creamery version made from whole milk.
