Mozzarella swap: provolone cheese as the ultimate alternative

When it comes to pizza, lasagna, and other classic Italian dishes, mozzarella cheese is often the go-to choice. However, in a pinch, can provolone cheese be used as a substitute for mozzarella? The answer is yes, but there are some key differences to keep in mind.

The Difference Between Provolone and Mozzarella

Provolone and mozzarella are both Italian cheeses made from cow’s milk. However, there are some key differences between the two cheeses:

• Texture: Mozzarella is a soft, stretchy cheese with a high moisture content. Provolone, on the other hand, is a harder, firmer cheese with a lower moisture content.
• Flavor: Mozzarella has a mild, milky flavor. Provolone has a sharper, more tangy flavor.
• Melting Properties: Mozzarella melts easily and smoothly, making it ideal for dishes like pizza and lasagna. Provolone does not melt as easily, and it tends to become stringy when melted.

When to Use Provolone as a Substitute for Mozzarella

Provolone can be used as a substitute for mozzarella in a variety of dishes, including:

• Pizza: Provolone will not melt as smoothly as mozzarella, but it can still be used to make a delicious pizza. For best results, use a combination of provolone and mozzarella.
• Lasagna: Provolone can be used as a substitute for mozzarella in lasagna, but it will not be as stretchy.
• Pasta dishes: Provolone can be used as a substitute for mozzarella in pasta dishes, but it will not melt as easily.

When Not to Use Provolone as a Substitute for Mozzarella

There are some dishes where provolone should not be used as a substitute for mozzarella, including:

• Caprese salad: Caprese salad is a classic Italian salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. Provolone does not have the same mild flavor as mozzarella, so it would not be a good substitute in this dish.
• Mozzarella sticks: Mozzarella sticks are a popular appetizer made with mozzarella cheese that is coated in bread crumbs and fried. Provolone would not be a good substitute for this dish because it does not melt as easily as mozzarella.

Tips for Using Provolone as a Substitute for Mozzarella

If you are using provolone as a substitute for mozzarella, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Use a combination of provolone and mozzarella. This will give you the best of both worlds: the stretchy texture of mozzarella and the sharper flavor of provolone.
• Shred the cheese finely. This will help the cheese melt more evenly.
• Preheat the cheese before using it. This will help the cheese melt more smoothly.

The Bottom Line: Can Provolone Cheese Be Substituted for Mozzarella?

Yes, provolone cheese can be substituted for mozzarella in a variety of dishes. However, there are some key differences between the two cheeses to keep in mind. Provolone has a sharper flavor and does not melt as easily as mozzarella. If you are using provolone as a substitute for mozzarella, be sure to use a combination of the two cheeses and shred the cheese finely.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Can I use provolone cheese in place of mozzarella in all dishes?
A: No, there are some dishes where provolone should not be used as a substitute for mozzarella, such as Caprese salad and mozzarella sticks.

Q: What is the best way to use provolone as a substitute for mozzarella?
A: Use a combination of provolone and mozzarella, shred the cheese finely, and preheat the cheese before using it.

Q: What are the key differences between provolone and mozzarella cheese?
A: Provolone has a sharper flavor and does not melt as easily as mozzarella. Mozzarella is a soft, stretchy cheese with a high moisture content, while provolone is a harder, firmer cheese with a lower moisture content.