Most people automatically top their pizzas with mozzarella cheese. While there’s nothing wrong with that, this isn’t the only option. The cheese you top your pizza with will depend on the type of pizza you make. In other words, it’s all about pairing the two to enhance the pizza’s flavor.
Mozzarella
This traditional cheese is still an excellent choice. There are two options to include low and high moisture. While low moisture has a slightly tangy flavor, high moisture doesn’t. Also, low-moisture mozzarella stretches, whereas high moisture tends to puddle. Because mozzarella cheese is so versatile, it works great with all kinds of pizza toppings.
Provolone
This Italian cheese comes in second to mozzarella for pizza. One of the unique aspects of this cheese is that its flavor varies dramatically based on its age. If you prefer cheese on your pizza that’s slightly sweet and creamy, choose shorter-aged provolone. However, if you like a dryer texture and sharper taste, opt for longer-aged cheese.
Gouda
Known for its creamy texture and rich flavor, Gouda cheese is ideal for pizza. Moreover, you can select either the traditional Gouda or the smoked version. Also, it’s important to pair this cheese with the right toppings, as it doesn’t go well with everything. Optimally, use it on pizzas made with barbecued meats.
Cheddar
Initially, you might balk at putting cheddar on your pizza but don’t judge too quickly. The one factor to know is that this particular cheese doesn’t heat as well as others. For that reason, it’s best when blended with other types of cheese, such as Colby jack and even mozzarella.
After all, you want the cheese to melt. Not only that but using blended cheddar cheese will give your pizza a unique and wonderful flavor.
Parmesan
To create a delicious pizza, don’t use Parmesan cheese as the topping. Instead, sprinkle some on top just before serving. The challenge is that heating this hard Italian cheese causes it to lose some of its unique flavor. For that reason, it’s better to use it more as a garnish.
Goat Cheese
Although not everyone likes the strong flavor of goat cheese, it’s an amazing choice for pizza. Because it’s both earthy and tart, it accentuates the flavors of mushrooms, caramelized onions, figs, arugula, bell peppers, and basil.
Gruyere
As you probably know, gruyere is the kind of cheese used to make French onion soup. However, its nuttiness and sweetness also make it a perfect option for pizza. There is one thing you should know. Gruyere cheese blisters easily. So, when baking a pizza, you’ll want to keep a close eye on it.
Ricotta
Of all the different types of cheese listed, this one might surprise you. However, it’s still a great choice. First, it’s made from remnants of goat’s milk, buffalo’s milk, and cow’s milk. That’s what makes it so unique and creamy. Ricotta cheese also has a somewhat sweetness to it. This enhances the flavors of pizza toppings like chicken, shrimp, spinach, artichokes, and broccoli.
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Try Something New
The next time you make pizza, step outside of your comfort zone. Who knows, you might discover a cheese that you like more than mozzarella.
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