Cheese Options For The Perfect Pizza: Expert Tips

Pizza and cheese are a match made in heaven, but what kind of cheese is best for pizza? The answer depends on the desired flavour profile and texture. While mozzarella is the most popular choice for pizzas worldwide, other types of cheese such as cheddar, provolone, parmesan, and gouda can also elevate a simple pizza into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Mozzarella is a classic choice for pizza due to its mild flavour, creamy texture, and excellent stretchiness. However, there are two main types of mozzarella: fresh and low-moisture. Fresh mozzarella offers a creamy, rich flavour with more moisture, while low-moisture mozzarella provides a denser texture and a saltier taste—ideal for achieving that desirable stretchy cheese layer.

Cheddar brings a bold, sharp flavour to pizzas, contrasting beautifully with the sweetness of the tomato sauce. Its distinctive taste adds depth and complexity, making it a popular choice for those looking to experiment beyond traditional cheeses.

Provolone is a smooth, creamy cheese with a hint of tanginess. It blends well with other cheeses and enhances the subtle flavours of the pizza.

Parmesan, with its nutty and salty undertones, adds an extra layer of flavour to any pizza. Its ability to complement a wide range of toppings without melting into the background makes it a true culinary gem.

Gouda offers a smoky richness to pizzas, with its older varieties introducing deeper flavour profiles. The smoky notes of gouda blend perfectly with robust toppings such as sausage or pepperoni.

Ultimately, the best cheese for pizza depends on personal preference and the desired flavour and texture profile. Experimenting with different cheeses and combinations can lead to delicious and unexpected results!

Mozzarella

The contrast between fresh and low-moisture mozzarella is significant. Fresh mozzarella cheese offers a creamy, rich flavour with more moisture, while low-moisture mozzarella provides a denser texture and a saltier taste, ideal for achieving that desirable stretchy cheese layer.

Low-moisture mozzarella is the best choice for a classic, dependable pizza. It has a longer shelf life and stronger flavour than fresh mozzarella. Its low water content means it releases little to no moisture when it melts, reducing the risk of a soggy pizza.

Cheddar

When selecting cheddar for your pizza, opt for a "mild" or "medium" variety as aged cheeses do not melt as well as younger ones. The fats and solids in aged cheddar may separate when exposed to high temperatures. However, a younger cheddar can be a great addition to a blend of multiple cheeses, providing extra depth of flavour to your pizza.

Provolone

In its youth, Provolone has a sweet and mild flavour, which sharpens as it ages. Its texture also changes over time, becoming crumbly due to the formation of salt crystals in the cheese. Provolone is a good melting cheese, and it can also offer a stretch similar to Mozzarella. However, it does not have the same pull as Mozzarella, and it is recommended to use a blend of the two cheeses to get the best of both.

When making a pizza with Provolone, it is best to shred your own cheese, as pre-shredded cheese contains additives that can affect its melting ability. A simple pizza recipe using Provolone includes Roma tomatoes, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese. The pizza is then baked for 12-18 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.

Parmesan

When using Parmesan for pizza, it is best to grate your own for a fresher taste and smoother blend. It is also important to note that the more aged the cheese is, the more reluctant it is to melt, so opting for a younger Parmesan may be better for a pizza topping.

A creamy, garlicky, and cheesy pizza can be made using a homemade Parmesan garlic sauce and topped with mozzarella cheese. This pizza is then baked for about 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.

Fresh vs low-moisture mozzarella

When it comes to pizza, there are two main types of mozzarella to choose from: fresh mozzarella and low-moisture mozzarella. While both have their own unique characteristics, they can significantly impact the taste, texture, and overall experience of your pizza. Here's a detailed comparison between the two:

Fresh Mozzarella:

Fresh mozzarella is typically pillowy soft, bright white, and made in various ball sizes. It is usually packed in water or hand-wrapped in plastic wrap and has a high moisture content. This type of mozzarella should be consumed within a week of production to ensure freshness. When used on a pizza and heated, the high water content can evaporate and settle as a "soupy" layer, which may not be desirable for some. However, it works well on Neapolitan-style pizzas and is best enjoyed cold and fresh. Fresh mozzarella is also known for its mild, rich, and milky flavour, often described as "artisan."

Low-Moisture Mozzarella:

Low-moisture mozzarella, also known as "regular mozzarella," is made by souring fresh mozzarella a little longer and then carefully drying it out. This process reduces its moisture content, resulting in a longer shelf life and a saltier flavour. The lower moisture content also enhances the cheese's browning and stretching abilities when heated, making it ideal for pizzas. Low-moisture mozzarella is perfect for creating that classic browned top on a pizza without becoming too wet. It has a stronger flavour and is easier to melt compared to its fresh counterpart. Additionally, low-moisture mozzarella is more versatile and can be used in various dishes beyond pizza.

In summary, the choice between fresh and low-moisture mozzarella depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you want a softer, milder, and more authentic Italian flavour, fresh mozzarella is the way to go. However, if you're looking for a cheese that melts easily, creates a browned top, and has a longer shelf life, low-moisture mozzarella is the better option. Ultimately, both types of mozzarella can be used to create delicious pizzas, and experimenting with both will help you discover which one suits your taste buds and culinary creations best.

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