The Origins of Italian Mozzarella Cheese

Traditional mozzarella comes from the southern parts of Italy, especially in the regions of Campania and Lazio. The original form of mozzarella is known as Mozzarella di Bufala Campana, made from the milk of water buffalo. Unlike cows’ milk, buffalo milk gives this cheese a richer texture and slightly tangy flavour.

The name “mozzarella” comes from the Italian word “mozzare,” which means “to cut off.” It describes the process where the curds are hand-stretched and then shaped into individual balls. This hands-on method is key to creating that perfect tender, bouncy ball of cheese many of us love.

Although mozzarella is now made in many countries, the best kind still comes from Italy, where traditions have been followed for centuries. Today, you can find both cow’s milk mozzarella (known as fior di latte) and buffalo milk mozzarella. Each gives a slightly different taste and texture.

How Mozzarella Became Loved All Over the World

What started as a regional favourite in Italy is now a kitchen essential everywhere. Mozzarella became increasingly popular across the globe, thanks mainly to pizza. Italian immigrants brought their food traditions with them, and soon, mozzarella-topped pizza was a hit in America, the UK, and beyond.

The simple ingredients used to make mozzarella, milk, rennet, and salt, meant that it could be produced in many places outside of Italy while still keeping its much-loved characteristics. Today, mozzarella is found in supermarkets, delis, and cheese shops around the world.

We offer a wide variety of Italian cheeses at Cheese Shop Nantwich, including classic favourites like Provolone. If you’re after something more aged with a bold bite, provolone could be your next favourite.

Delicious Ways to Enjoy Mozzarella

Mozzarella is incredibly versatile in the kitchen, and it’s one of the few cheeses that holds its place in both cold and hot dishes. Let’s explore some of the best ways to enjoy this Italian classic.

Fresh Dishes

Fresh mozzarella has a mild, milky flavour that shines in simple dishes. A Caprese salad, made with slices of tomato, mozzarella, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil, is a delicious and refreshing way to enjoy this cheese. You can add a sprinkle of salt and pepper or even a splash of balsamic vinegar to give it an extra zing.

Mozzarella is also perfect when served with crusty bread and cured meats like prosciutto. It adds subtle richness without overpowering the other ingredients.

Cooked Dishes

Mozzarella truly shines in hot meals. On pizza, it melts beautifully, pulling into those long, stretchy strings we all adore. It’s also ideal for baked pasta dishes like lasagna or stuffed shells, helping bind everything together while adding creaminess.

If you like baking bread at home, tuck mozzarella inside a dough roll before baking. When you pull one apart, you’ll be treated to a gooey, delicious centre.

Pair your cheesy meals with other Italian cheeses like Taleggio, a soft cheese with a stronger flavour. While mozzarella adds creaminess, Taleggio brings a tangier punch, and together they create a perfect balance.

Types of Mozzarella to Try

Not all mozzarella is the same. Depending on how it’s made and the milk used, each kind offers a different texture and flavour experience. Here’s a quick guide to the most common types:

• Bufala Mozzarella: Made from water buffalo milk, this variety is soft, creamy, and rich. It’s best served fresh and makes an impressive addition to salads or appetisers.
• Fior di Latte: Made from cow’s milk, it’s milder and slightly firmer. Ideal for pizzas, paninis, and cooking.
• Smoked Mozzarella (Scamorza Affumicata): This version is firmer and has a smoky flavour, perfect for melting in toasties or grilled dishes.

Mix and match different types in your recipes to find your personal favourite.

Another Italian cheese worth adding to your kitchen is Caseificio Organic Parmesan. It adds a salty, nutty layer that complements the mildness of mozzarella perfectly.

Choosing the Best Mozzarella: Fresh vs Aged

When buying mozzarella, think about what you plan to cook. Fresh mozzarella, usually stored in water or brine, is delicate and best served cold or lightly melted. Use it in salads, sandwiches, or soft bakes.

There’s also low-moisture mozzarella, which is aged and has a drier texture. It melts evenly, making it a great choice for traditional pizzas and pasta recipes.

Our team at Cheese Shop Nantwich can help you find the perfect cheese for your dish. We stock a thoughtful selection of Italian cheeses, including Pecorino Dolce, which has a soft, gentle flavour that blends beautifully with mozzarella in baked dishes.

Pairing Mozzarella with Other Italian Cheeses

Mozzarella is fantastic on its own, but combining it with other Italian cheeses can make your cooking even better. Try using mozzarella with harder cheeses like Pecorino Sardo, which has a bold, salty taste. Sprinkle some on top of your mozzarella-covered pasta for an extra layer of flavour.

You could also use mozzarella as a base in a cheese board, then add slices of provolone, parmesan, or taleggio for variety in flavour and texture.

If you’re planning a pizza night or cheese tasting evening, visit our shop or browse Cheese Shop Nantwich online to explore a whole selection of cheeses that go hand in hand with mozzarella.

Common Questions About Mozzarella Cheese

What’s the difference between fresh and aged mozzarella?

Fresh mozzarella is soft, kept in water or brine, and has a delicate, milky taste. Aged mozzarella is firmer and dries out over time, making it a great choice for melting on pizza or in dishes that need a longer cook.

Can you freeze mozzarella?

Yes, you can freeze mozzarella, but it works best with low-moisture mozzarella. Freezing fresh mozzarella might change its texture, making it crumbly rather than smooth when defrosted.

What’s the best way to store mozzarella?

Keep fresh mozzarella in its water or brine in the fridge, and use it within a few days of opening. Low-moisture mozzarella can be stored in a sealed container in the fridge for several weeks.

Is mozzarella healthy?

Mozzarella is one of the lower-fat cheeses and is a good source of protein and calcium. Choose fresh versions for fewer additives and enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Celebrate Mozzarella with Cheese Shop Nantwich

Mozzarella is more than just a pizza topping. It’s a slice of Italian food history that has made its way into kitchens around the globe. From its creamy origins in southern Italy to your family dinner table, mozzarella is a tasty, flexible cheese that suits nearly every meal.

At Cheese Shop Nantwich, we’re proud to offer a wide range of Italian cheeses made with care and tradition. Whether you’re trying a fresh mozzarella ball for the first time or adding a touch of Pecorino Sardo to your pasta, great cheese brings joy to every bite.

If you’re ready to explore more, visit us in-store or online at Cheese Shop Nantwich and bring a little taste of Italy into your home today!