What To Know
- For example, a classic Margherita pizza is best paired with mozzarella, while a white pizza may benefit from a creamy goat cheese.
- For example, a spicy pepperoni pizza pairs well with a sharp provolone, while a sweet pineapple pizza may be better suited for a mild mozzarella.
- For high-temperature cooking, such as in a wood-fired oven, a firmer cheese like provolone or Asiago is a good choice.
Choosing the best cheese for pizza is an art form, a culinary quest that can elevate your pizza-making experience to new heights. With a vast array of options available, from classic mozzarella to exotic blue cheese, finding the perfect match for your pizza can be a daunting task. This comprehensive guide will lead you through the intricacies of cheese selection, empowering you to create pizzas that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Classic Mozzarella
Mozzarella, the undisputed king of pizza cheeses, is a soft, white cheese with a mild, milky flavor. Its creamy texture and ability to melt beautifully make it the go-to choice for many pizza lovers. Mozzarella di bufala, made from the milk of water buffaloes, is considered the gold standard, offering a richer, more complex flavor.
Fresh Mozzarella
Fresh mozzarella, also known as fior di latte, is made from fresh milk and has a slightly firmer texture than regular mozzarella. Its delicate flavor and high moisture content make it ideal for pizzas that are cooked at high temperatures, such as in a wood-fired oven.
Provolone
Provolone, a semi-hard cheese with a nutty, slightly smoky flavor, adds a touch of sophistication to pizzas. Its slightly higher melting point than mozzarella gives it a nice golden-brown crust. Provolone is a great choice for pizzas with robust toppings, such as spicy sausage or roasted vegetables.
Parmigiano-Reggiano
Parmigiano-Reggiano, the king of Italian cheeses, is a hard, granular cheese with a sharp, salty flavor. It is often grated over pizzas to add a burst of umami and a nutty complexity. Its long aging process (at least 24 months) results in a rich, concentrated flavor that can transform any pizza.
Asiago
Asiago, a semi-hard cheese with a slightly nutty, fruity flavor, adds a touch of sweetness to pizzas. Its firm texture and ability to brown well make it a great choice for pizzas that are baked in a traditional oven. Asiago can be used alone or combined with other cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
Blue Cheese
Blue cheese, with its distinctive blue-green veins and pungent flavor, adds a touch of intrigue to pizzas. Its strong, salty flavor is best balanced with sweet or spicy toppings, such as honey or caramelized onions. Blue cheese is not for the faint of heart, but it can create a truly unforgettable pizza experience.
Other Gourmet Cheeses
Beyond the classic options, there are countless gourmet cheeses that can elevate your pizzas to new heights. Consider experimenting with:
- Fontina: A creamy, nutty cheese with a slightly sweet flavor
- Goat cheese: A tangy, crumbly cheese that adds a touch of acidity
- Feta: A brined cheese with a salty, tangy flavor
- Gorgonzola: A creamy, blue-veined cheese with a sharp, earthy flavor
How to Choose the Best Cheese
The best cheese for pizza is ultimately a matter of personal preference. However, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Type of pizza: Different pizzas call for different cheeses. For example, a classic Margherita pizza is best paired with mozzarella, while a white pizza may benefit from a creamy goat cheese.
- Toppings: Consider the flavors of your toppings and choose a cheese that will complement them. For example, a spicy pepperoni pizza pairs well with a sharp provolone, while a sweet pineapple pizza may be better suited for a mild mozzarella.
- Cooking method: The cooking method can affect the way the cheese melts and browns. For high-temperature cooking, such as in a wood-fired oven, a firmer cheese like provolone or Asiago is a good choice.
Wrap-Up: Your Pizza, Your Canvas
Choosing the best cheese for pizza is a journey of exploration and experimentation. With so many options available, there is no shortage of ways to create a pizza that is uniquely yours. Embrace the artistry of pizza-making, let your creativity soar, and discover the perfect cheese combination that will make your pizzas the talk of the town.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Can I use any type of cheese on pizza?
A: While you can technically use any type of cheese on pizza, some cheeses are better suited than others. Hard cheeses like cheddar or Parmesan may not melt well, while soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert may become too runny.
Q: How much cheese should I use on a pizza?
A: The amount of cheese you use will depend on the size of your pizza and your personal preference. A good rule of thumb is to use about 6-8 ounces of cheese per 12-inch pizza.
Q: Can I mix different types of cheese on my pizza?
A: Absolutely! Mixing different types of cheese can create a more complex and flavorful pizza. Just be sure to choose cheeses that will melt well together and complement the toppings you are using.
Q: What is the best way to store leftover pizza?
A: To store leftover pizza, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you are ready to reheat it, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Q: Can I freeze pizza?
A: Yes, you can freeze pizza. To freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Place it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you are ready to reheat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
