What are the best substitutes for Mozzarella Cheese?
What are the best substitutes for mozzarella cheese? You open the fridge ready to do some cooking and realize you have no mozzarella cheese – what do you do? Don’t panic we can give you some advice on the best way to substitute mozzarella cheese in your recipe.
What is Mozzarella Cheese?
Mozzarella cheese is a type of cheese that originated in Italy. It is traditionally made from the milk of water buffaloes, although cow’s milk is commonly used today. Mozzarella cheese has a soft and slightly elastic texture with a mild, delicate flavor. It is commonly used in Italian cuisine. We particularly enjoy using it in dishes such as pizza, lasagna, and caprese salad.
Okay, before we look at your mozzarella cheese substitute options let’s deal with that empty cupboard situation!
Where can I buy Mozzarella Cheese?
If you want to be more prepared and make sure that you don’t run out of mozzarella cheese then you should stock up now.
Nowadays most delicatessens and general supermarkets stock a wide variety of mozzarella cheese.
Or if you prefer you can also purchase mozzarella cheese on-line. Here is a link for a large 3 lb loaf of mozzarella cheese.
So why not jump on and place your order today.
STOCK UP NOW!
Mozzarella Cheese – large 3 lb loaf
Pasteurized Whole milk Mozzarella cheese. Large loaf – 3 lb.
Including, cheese culture, salt, and enzymes.
What can I substitute for Mozzarella Cheese?
Here are some of the best ways to substitute the flavor and role that mozzarella cheese provides in your recipes.
Use any of the following as a substitute:
- White cheddar
- Monterey Jack
- Feta
- Ricotta
- Fontina
- Dairy-free alternatives
Mozzarella Cheese substitutes
White cheddar
White cheddar (or even red cheddar) can be used as a substitute for mozzarella cheese in certain dishes. While it may have a different flavor profile, it can still work well in many recipes that call for melted or shredded mozzarella.
White cheddar has a stronger and sharper flavor compared to the mild taste of mozzarella, so it can add a more robust flavor to your dish. It melts nicely and can be used in dishes such as pizzas, casseroles, and grilled cheese sandwiches.
Keep in mind that the texture and taste of the final dish may differ slightly from the original recipe, but it can still be a delicious alternative.
We have made a sandwich using both red and white cheddar – yum.
Monterey Jack
Monterey Jack cheese has a mild and creamy flavor with a slight tang, making it a good option for dishes that require melted cheese. It is a white, semi-hard cheese made from cow’s milk. It can be used in dishes like pizzas, quesadillas, enchiladas, and nachos.
The cheese has a mild flavor with a slight sweetness to it. The texture and taste may vary slightly from mozzarella, but it can still provide a tasty alternative.
Experimenting with different cheeses can add a unique twist to your recipes. And as Monterey Jack also comes in many flavors you can have some fun with your food. Flavors include garlic, dill, leek, lemon and peppercorn. Our favorite is the peppercorn!
Feta cheese
Feta cheese can be used as a substitute for mozzarella cheese in certain dishes. Although it does have a slightly different flavor and texture.
Feta cheese has a tangy and salty taste with a crumbly texture, which contrasts with the mild and stretchy nature of mozzarella. While feta may not melt as smoothly as mozzarella, it can still be a delicious addition to salads, sandwiches, and baked dishes.
It pairs well with Mediterranean flavors and can provide a distinct and savory element to your recipes.
Keep in mind that the texture and taste will be different, so consider the overall flavor profile of the dish before substituting feta for mozzarella.
Ricotta cheese
Ricotta cheese can be used as a substitute for mozzarella cheese in certain dishes. It has a creamy and grainy texture with a mild and slightly sweet flavor.
While it doesn’t melt and stretch like mozzarella, it can still be a tasty addition to dishes that require a soft and creamy cheese.
Ricotta can be used in recipes such as lasagna, stuffed shells, and baked pasta dishes. However, it’s important to note that the final result will have a different consistency and taste compared to using mozzarella cheese.
Consider the specific requirements and desired outcome of the dish before substituting ricotta for mozzarella.
Fontina cheese
Fontina cheese can be a suitable substitute for mozzarella cheese.
It is a semi-soft Italian cheese with a rich, creamy, and slightly nutty flavor. It melts well and has a smooth and gooey texture, making it a great option for dishes that require melted cheese.
Fontina can be used as a substitute in recipes such as pizzas, sandwiches, casseroles, and fondues. While it may have a slightly different taste compared to mozzarella, it can add a delicious depth of flavor to your dishes.
Try experimenting with Fontina cheese and see if you can come with some new recipes.
Dairy-free alternatives to mozzarella cheese
If you are looking for a healthy substitute for mozzarella cheese have you thought of going dairy-free? Also, if you follow a vegan or lactose-free diet, there are several dairy-free alternatives available, such as vegan mozzarella. These are made from plant-based ingredients like soy, almond, or coconut. These alternatives are designed to melt and can be used in various recipes.
- Soy-based mozzarella cheese substitutes are widely available and can be used in various dishes, including pizzas, pasta bakes, and sandwiches.
- Almond-based mozzarella is made from almond milk or almond protein. It can be melted and used in recipes like pizzas, lasagnas, and salads.
- Coconut-based mozzarella is typically made from coconut milk or coconut oil. It has a creamy texture and can be used in recipes such as pizzas, quesadillas, and stuffed vegetables.
When using these alternatives, it’s essential to follow the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer as their melting and flavor properties may differ from traditional mozzarella cheese. Additionally, keep in mind that the taste and texture may vary compared to dairy-based mozzarella, but they can still provide a satisfactory substitute in many recipes.
Summary for Mozzarella Cheese substitutes
Okay – that’s you all sorted with suitable substitutes for mozzarella cheese.
Mozzarella cheese can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation. It provides several essential nutrients, including calcium, protein, and vitamins like vitamin A and vitamin B12. However, mozzarella cheese is also high in saturated fat and sodium, so it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes.
It can be used on pizzas, toasties, salads (our favorite is Caprese Quinoa Salad), casseroles, and fondues.
If you do run out of mozzarella cheese then the substitute products listed above will provide you with an alternative. Which one will you choose?
And remember if you’re looking to replace mozzarella cheese in a recipe, you’ll need to consider what role the mozzarella cheese was playing in the recipe and choose a suitable replacement that provides similar benefits.