Grocery
Fresh Mozzarella Cheese
What it is
This is a fresh, soft, and mild Italian cheese. It is made from cow's milk or buffalo's milk. It has a high moisture content and a delicate, milky flavor. It is typically sold in a brine or whey to maintain its freshness and texture. Its smooth, elastic texture makes it a popular choice for many dishes.
How people cook with it
Fresh mozzarella is incredibly versatile in the kitchen. It can be enjoyed on its own or incorporated into a wide variety of recipes.
- On pizzas
- In Caprese salads
- In baked pasta dishes
- On grilled sandwiches
When using fresh mozzarella, it's best to handle it gently. You can slice it, tear it into pieces, or even roll it into small balls. For pizzas, it's often added towards the end of baking to prevent it from melting too much and becoming oily. In salads, it provides a creamy contrast to fresh tomatoes and basil. It also melts beautifully when baked, adding a rich, gooey texture to casseroles and gratins.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to low-moisture mozzarella, fresh mozzarella has a higher water content and a softer, more delicate texture. It melts differently, often becoming stringy and creamy rather than uniformly melted. Its flavor is also milder and more milky, making it ideal for dishes where the cheese is a primary component.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike use fresh mozzarella for its distinct texture and flavor.
How to keep the rest
To keep fresh mozzarella at its best, store it in its original brine or whey in the refrigerator. If you've drained the liquid, you can store it submerged in milk. It's best consumed within a few days of opening for optimal freshness and taste.