Mozzarella cheese is an essential ingredient in making pizza. It is a soft, white cheese that has a tangy flavor and a stretchy texture when melted.

However, not all mozzarella cheese is created equal. In this article, we will explore the different types of mozzarella cheese and determine which one is best for making pizza.

Fresh Mozzarella

Fresh mozzarella is made from cow’s milk or buffalo milk. It has a high moisture content and a delicate flavor.

This type of mozzarella comes in balls or logs and is typically sold in brine or water to keep it fresh. Fresh mozzarella has a soft texture and melts easily, making it an ideal choice for pizza toppings.

Pros:

  • Soft texture
  • Melts easily
  • Delicate flavor

Cons:

  • High moisture content can make the pizza soggy
  • Short shelf life

Best Use: Fresh mozzarella is best used as a topping on pizzas that are cooked quickly at high temperatures. It pairs well with fresh ingredients such as basil, tomatoes, and prosciutto.

Low-Moisture Mozzarella

Low-moisture mozzarella is made from cow’s milk and has been aged for several months to remove most of the moisture. It has a firmer texture than fresh mozzarella and a slightly saltier taste. This type of mozzarella comes in blocks or pre-shredded bags.

  • Longer shelf life than fresh mozzarella
  • Firmer texture makes it easier to grate
  • Less moisture means less chance of a soggy pizza
  • Doesn’t melt as well as fresh mozzarella
  • Can be drier and less flavorful than fresh mozzarella

Best Use: Low-moisture mozzarella is best used as a base cheese on pizzas that are cooked for longer periods at lower temperatures. It pairs well with heartier toppings such as sausage, peppers, and onions.

Buffalo Mozzarella

Buffalo mozzarella is made from the milk of water buffalo. It has a higher fat content than cow’s milk mozzarella and a creamier texture. This type of mozzarella comes in balls or logs and is typically sold in brine.

  • Creamier texture than cow’s milk mozzarella
  • Rich flavor
  • Can be more expensive than cow’s milk mozzarella
  • Can be harder to find in some areas

Best Use: Buffalo mozzarella is best used on Neapolitan-style pizzas that are cooked quickly at high temperatures. It pairs well with simple toppings such as tomatoes, basil, and olive oil.

In conclusion, the type of mozzarella cheese you choose for your pizza depends on the style of pizza you are making and your personal preferences. Fresh mozzarella is great for topping pizzas that are cooked quickly at high temperatures, while low-moisture mozzarella is best for pizzas that are cooked for longer periods at lower temperatures.

Buffalo mozzarella is a premium option that adds a rich, creamy flavor to your pizza. Consider experimenting with different types of mozzarella cheese to find the one that works best for you.