Unveiling the secret: what is shredded provolone cheese and why you need it

Shredded provolone cheese is a versatile and flavorful cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is a semi-hard cheese with a slightly nutty flavor and a smooth, creamy texture. Shredded provolone cheese is made from cow’s milk and is typically aged for 3-6 months.

How is Shredded Provolone Cheese Made?

Shredded provolone cheese is made by first heating cow’s milk to a specific temperature. Then, a starter culture is added to the milk, which helps to convert the lactose in the milk into lactic acid. This process gives provolone cheese its characteristic tangy flavor.

Once the milk has fermented, rennet is added to the milk, which helps to coagulate the milk proteins into curds. The curds are then cut into small pieces and heated gently until they reach the desired consistency.

The curds are then placed in molds and pressed to remove any excess whey. The cheese is then aged for a period of time, which can range from 3 months to 2 years. The longer the cheese is aged, the harder and sharper the flavor will become.

What are the Different Types of Shredded Provolone Cheese?

There are two main types of shredded provolone cheese:

• Dolce provolone: This type of provolone cheese is aged for a shorter period of time, typically 3-6 months. It has a mild, nutty flavor and a smooth, creamy texture.
• Piccante provolone: This type of provolone cheese is aged for a longer period of time, typically 9-12 months. It has a sharper, more tangy flavor and a firmer texture.

What are the Nutritional Benefits of Shredded Provolone Cheese?

Shredded provolone cheese is a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamin D. It is also a good source of riboflavin, vitamin B12, and zinc.

One ounce of shredded provolone cheese contains:

• Calories: 110
• Protein: 7 grams
• Fat: 9 grams
• Carbohydrates: 1 gram
• Calcium: 20% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin D: 10% of the DV
• Riboflavin: 10% of the DV
• Vitamin B12: 10% of the DV
• Zinc: 5% of the DV

How to Use Shredded Provolone Cheese

Shredded provolone cheese can be used in a variety of dishes, including:

• Pasta dishes: Shredded provolone cheese can be added to pasta dishes to create a creamy, cheesy sauce.
• Pizza: Shredded provolone cheese is a popular topping for pizza. It melts well and has a slightly nutty flavor that complements the other flavors in pizza.
• Sandwiches: Shredded provolone cheese can be added to sandwiches to add flavor and texture.
• Salads: Shredded provolone cheese can be added to salads to add protein and flavor.
• Soups: Shredded provolone cheese can be added to soups to create a creamy, cheesy texture.

How to Store Shredded Provolone Cheese

Shredded provolone cheese should be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 2 weeks.

Tips for Using Shredded Provolone Cheese

Here are a few tips for using shredded provolone cheese:

• Use it in moderation. Provolone cheese is a high-fat cheese, so it should be used in moderation.
• Shred it yourself. Shredded provolone cheese that is pre-shredded may contain additives that can alter the flavor and texture of the cheese.
• Melt it slowly. Provolone cheese melts well, but it is important to melt it slowly to prevent it from becoming rubbery.

Information You Need to Know

What is the difference between provolone and mozzarella cheese?
Provolone cheese is a semi-hard cheese with a slightly nutty flavor, while mozzarella cheese is a soft, white cheese with a mild flavor. Provolone cheese is also aged for a longer period of time than mozzarella cheese, which gives it a harder texture.

What are some popular provolone cheese brands?
Some popular provolone cheese brands include:

• BelGioioso
• Polly-O
• Sargento
• Kraft
• Borden

How can I tell if provolone cheese is bad?
Provolone cheese is bad if it has a moldy or slimy appearance, or if it has a sour or rancid smell.