Mozzarella

Fresh mozzarella is characterized by its soft, moist texture and mild flavor. It is best consumed shortly after production and is a popular choice for salads, Caprese dishes, and as a topping for pizzas. Originating from Southern Italy, this iconic cheese has a rich history and a unique production process that sets it apart.

History

Mozzarella's roots can be traced back to the Campania region of Italy, where it was first made from buffalo milk. The word "mozzarella" itself is derived from the Neapolitan dialect, meaning "cut" or "chopped off," which refers to the traditional method of forming the cheese by hand-cutting and shaping it.

Traditionally, mozzarella is made from the milk of water buffaloes, providing a distinctive flavor and texture. However, in modern times, cow's milk is also widely used, resulting in a milder taste. High-quality milk is crucial for producing premium mozzarella, and factors such as the animal's diet and living conditions can influence the final product.

The Cheese-Making Process

1. Curdling: The process begins with curdling the milk using rennet or an acidifying agent. This causes the milk proteins to coagulate, forming curds.

2. Cutting and draining: Once the curds have formed, they are cut into small pieces to release the whey. The curds are then allowed to drain, creating the foundation for the cheese.

3. Stretching and shaping: One of the distinctive features of mozzarella is its stretchiness. The curds are heated and stretched, aligning the proteins and creating the cheese's characteristic texture. The cheese is then shaped into balls or blocks, depending on the desired final product.

4. Brining or salting: After shaping, mozzarella is typically immersed in a brine solution or salted, contributing to its flavor and aiding in preservation.

Cooking with Mozzarella

This versatile cheese complements a wide range of dishes, adding a creamy texture and a mild, milky flavor. One iconic dish that prominently features mozzarella is the Margherita pizza. The simplicity of tomato, fresh basil, and mozzarella on a thin crust showcases the cheese's ability to melt into a gooey, delicious layer that ties all the flavors together. Another beloved classic is the Caprese salad, where slices of fresh mozzarella intermingle with ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil—a true celebration of the cheese's freshness and simplicity. For a heartier fare, dishes like lasagna and eggplant Parmesan rely on melted mozzarella to create layers of indulgent, cheesy goodness. From stuffed mushrooms to savory calzones, mozzarella's melting qualities and mild taste make it a beloved ingredient in countless iconic dishes.

Indulge in the exquisite world of mozzarella with our carefully curated list of producers!

Casearia Casabianca - http://www.caseariacasabianca.it/en/index.html

Antonio Mozzarella Factory - http://antoniomozzarella.com/

Galbani - https://galbanicheese.com/

Belgioioso - https://www.belgioioso.com/

Caseificio Quattro Portoni - https://www.quattroportoni.com/

Bufala Quattro Portoni - https://www.mozzarelladop.it/?fbclid=IwAR324P-hbPZfPOnlA9E0WbSvifRelXT8N_OGbcBHiICPnVvJGshIWR99jp4

Fattorie Garofalo - https://www.fattoriegarofalo.it/

Lioni Latticini - https://www.lionimozzarella.com/