When talking about which cheese is best for pizza, mozzarella immediately comes to mind. However, this is not the only option. There are many other mouth-watering cheeses that can be used to prepare this dish. You can taste many varieties, from dry Italian cheeses to creamy blue cheese. Try them individually or try mixing and matching to discover your favorite flavor combination.
Instructions
Step 1
As noted, fresh mozzarella cheese is a classic ingredient in Italian pizza, and its minimal processing offers a fresh taste with a light creamy texture. It can be found commercially in a variety of shapes and sizes. It has a short shelf life and once you open the package it should be used within a week.
Step 2
Provolone is a semi-hard Italian cheese. Its flavor can vary, depending on age, from sweet with a mild flavor and creamy texture to savory and firm. An excellent choice is to mix it with mozzarella to enhance the flavor.
Step 3
Parmigiano Reggiano is a certified product from Italy that takes 12-36 months to prepare. It should not be confused with Parmesan, which is significantly inferior to its taste. Parmigiano Reggiano has a more crumbly texture and a nutty flavor that is much more intense. It also contains significantly less salt and is great for making pizza.
Step 4
Grana Padano is also a certified Italian cheese that can be used in pizza making. It is similar to Parmigiano Reggiano but tastes less intense.
Step 5
Pizza lovers should pay attention to Pecorino Romano - certified cheese made in Tuscany from sheep's milk. It has a soft, creamy texture and delicate taste.
Step 6
Gouda is a hard yellow cheese made from cow's milk. It has a thick crust and a strong smoky aroma. This cheese is best used in sliced pizza as it does not melt and has a very thick, creamy texture when heated. It goes well with bacon, fried onions, or vegetables. In any pizza, a mixture of one part gouda with four parts mozzarella looks great.
Step 7
Blue cheese pairs well with fresh, aromatic vegetables such as cherry tomatoes and arugula. You can use it as a bottom layer or make a sauce based on it.
Step 8
Soft cheeses (such as mascarpone) can be a great alternative to classic ones, and can be used in pizza either neat or mixed with herbs and spices. Try spreading them over a pizza base or spreading them in small pieces on top of other ingredients.
Step 9
Processed cheeses can also be used in some types of pizza, especially when paired with sausage or ham. Since processed cheese has a soft, creamy consistency, it is recommended to grease the base of the pizza with it and add the rest of the ingredients on top.
