Mozzarella Cheese Storage, Tips, and Substitutions
• If a recipe specifies fresh mozzarella, use the real thing or risk an unsatisfactory result.• Fresh mozzarella is best at room temperature. Remove it from the refrigerator two hours before you plan to serve it.
• Monterey Jack or Bel Paese cheese can be substituted for mozzarella in most recipes.
• Processed mozzarella can be frozen up to six months, but it will become crumbly and lose moisture when thawed. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator and hold it at least a week to let the liquid re-absorb before using.
• Thawed mozzarella is best used only in melted applications.
• Freezing cheese tends to separate fat globules, which will may cause "oil slicks" in your dishes when melted.
• All types of mozzarella should be constantly refrigerated until consumed.
• Lower-fat mozzarella cheese generally contains more water, so keep this in mind when using it in melted dishes.
• 8 ounces of mozzarella equals 2 cups grated.
• Good companions for mozzarella: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and light-bodied Pinot Noir wines; crusty bread, pasta, roasted red peppers, tomatoes, basil, garlic, prosciutto, sardines, and olives.
More about Mozzarella Cheese and Mozzarella Recipes:
• Mozzarella Storage Tips, Measures, and Substitutions• What is mozzarella? FAQ
• Mozzarella Cheese Types - Fresh Mozzarella Varieties
• Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Recipe
• Mozzarella Cheese Recipes
Mozzarella Cheese Photo © 2008 Peggy Trowbridge Filippone, licensed to About.com, Inc.
