Grocery
Ricotta Cheese
What it is
Ricotta cheese is a fresh, soft Italian cheese made from whey, a byproduct of cheesemaking. Its name means 'recooked' in Italian, referring to the process of heating the whey to extract remaining curds. This results in a light, slightly sweet, and creamy cheese with a delicate texture. It is typically sold in tubs and has a mild flavor that makes it versatile in many dishes.
How people cook with it
Ricotta cheese is a popular ingredient in both sweet and savory cooking. Its creamy consistency and mild taste allow it to blend well with other flavors.
- Filling for lasagna
- Topping for pasta
- Ingredient in cheesecake
- Spread on toast
Ricotta can be used directly from the container in many applications. For baked dishes like lasagna or stuffed shells, it is often mixed with eggs, herbs, and other cheeses before being layered. In desserts, it can be sweetened with sugar and flavored with vanilla or citrus zest to create a creamy filling for tarts or cheesecakes. It can also be blended into sauces for a richer texture or simply served as a spread.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike firmer cheeses, ricotta is not aged and has a higher moisture content, giving it a softer, grainier texture. Its flavor is much milder and less tangy than many other cheeses, making it a good base for other ingredients to shine.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs use ricotta cheese to add a creamy element to their recipes.
How to keep the rest
After opening, store any leftover ricotta cheese in its original container, tightly covered, in the refrigerator. It is best to consume it within a few days to maintain its freshness and delicate texture. Avoid freezing, as this can alter its consistency.