Grocery
Fresh Mozzarella Cheese
What it is
This is a fresh, soft, and brined cheese made from cow's milk. It has a mild, milky flavor and a distinctly springy texture. It is often sold in a whey or water solution to maintain its moisture and delicate characteristics. Its high moisture content makes it melt beautifully and become wonderfully stringy when heated.
How people cook with it
Fresh mozzarella is a versatile ingredient that adds a creamy richness to many dishes. It is particularly popular in Italian cuisine.
- Topping for pizzas
- In Caprese salads
- Inside baked pasta dishes
- As a simple appetizer
When preparing dishes, fresh mozzarella can be sliced, torn, or cubed. For pizzas, it is often placed in dollops over the sauce and toppings before baking. In salads, it is typically sliced or torn into bite-sized pieces and combined with tomatoes, basil, and a dressing. It can also be layered into lasagna or baked ziti, melting into a gooey, satisfying component. Its delicate nature means it is best enjoyed relatively soon after preparation.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike aged or hard mozzarella, fresh mozzarella has a much higher moisture content and a softer, more yielding texture. It does not grate well and is not as firm. This makes it ideal for applications where a creamy melt is desired, rather than a firm, chewy texture.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike use fresh mozzarella for its superior flavor and texture in a variety of recipes.
How to keep the rest
After opening the original packaging, store any unused fresh mozzarella submerged in its original brine or water in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best consumed within a few days of opening to maintain its optimal freshness and texture.