Do you develop an Italian accent when you say the word mozzarella or is that just me? Either way, its a fun word to say and a tasty food to eat! Mozzarella is a dairy product, click here to learn more about the benefits of eating dairy.
Mozzarella comes from Italy and is made out of unpasteurized (not heated/cooked) cow or water buffalo milk. Since water buffalo are only found in a few countries, most mozzarella comes from cow’s milk.
Mozzarella is unique because it is eaten fresh, most cheeses are aged before they are eaten. Aged cheese means it rests, sometimes for 6 months, before it is consumed.
Mozzarella cheese is a good food to incorporate into the diet because of the nutrients you get from eating it.
Protein: provides building blocks for cells throughout the body.
Calcium: keeps bones and teeth strong.
Phosphorus: helps in the formation of bones and teeth.
Vitamin B-12: helps keep nerve and blood cells healthy – also helps make DNA.
- Pizza, of course! Mozzarella is the ultimate pizza topping.
- Grilled mozzarella cheese sandwich – add some tomato slices!
- Add it to a salad.
- Sprinkle some shredded mozzarella on a pasta dish.
- Tomato Mozzarella bites: stick a cherry tomato and a piece of mozzarella on a toothpick, drizzle with balsamic vinegar.
- Create your own mozzarella! Click here to learn how.
Fresh: sold in a bag or plastic container with whey or water.
Processed: this type is packed air-tight with no liquid. (Both fresh and processed are commonly found in the grocery store)
Mozzarella di Bufala: mozzarella labeled mozzarella di bufala, has come from our furry water buffalo friend.
Burrata: this mozzarella has a very creamy center.
Smoked (affumicato): mozzarella smoked over wood chips, creating a golden brown rind.
Information came from thespruceeats.com, USDA food database, medlineplus.gov