If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine, you may have come across Scamorza cheese. This semi-soft, slightly smoky cheese has a distinct flavor that makes it a popular choice for dishes like pizza, pasta, and salads. However, Scamorza cheese can be challenging to find in some parts of the world, and it may also be expensive in certain locations. Fortunately, there are several substitutes that can be used in place of Scamorza cheese without compromising on flavor or texture. In this article, we’ll look at the 7 best substitutes for Scamorza cheese.
What is Scamorza Cheese?
Scamorza is a type of Italian cheese made from cow’s milk and is classified under the Pasta Filata category. This type of cheese is made by allowing fresh cheese curds to mature in hot whey until the acidity develops, and then kneading them until they become soft and chewy.
The distinctive shape of Scamorza cheese is often pear-like, although it’s not a requirement for the cheese to be shaped in this way. However, it’s common to tie a string at the top of Scamorza cheese before hanging it to dry.
Best Scamorza Cheese Substitutes
1. Mozzarella Cheese
Mozzarella cheese is one of the most popular cheese types in the world and is a close cousin of Scamorza cheese. Mozzarella has a mild, creamy flavor that makes it a versatile ingredient in many Italian dishes. It’s also widely available and affordable, making it an excellent substitute for Scamorza cheese.
When using mozzarella as a substitute, it’s important to note that it has a milder flavor than Scamorza. However, you can add a bit of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to achieve a smoky flavor similar to Scamorza. Mozzarella can be used in recipes that call for Scamorza cheese, such as pizza, pasta, and lasagna.
2. Provolone Cheese
Provolone cheese is another cheese that’s similar to Scamorza. It’s a semi-hard, pale yellow cheese that’s popular in Italian cuisine. Provolone has a slightly sharper flavor than Scamorza, but it’s still a great substitute. It’s also a bit firmer than Scamorza, so it can be grated or sliced thinly.
Provolone cheese can be used in any recipe that calls for Scamorza cheese, including pizza, pasta, and sandwiches. You can also use it as a substitute for Scamorza in recipes that require melted cheese, such as fondue or grilled cheese sandwiches.
3. Smoked Gouda Cheese
Smoked Gouda cheese is a Dutch cheese that has a smoky flavor similar to Scamorza. It’s a semi-hard cheese that’s often used in sandwiches and cheese platters. Smoked Gouda has a slightly nutty flavor and a creamy texture that makes it a great substitute for Scamorza cheese.
When using Smoked Gouda as a substitute, it’s important to note that it’s firmer than Scamorza. However, you can melt it down to achieve a similar texture. Smoked Gouda is a great substitute for Scamorza in dishes like pizza, pasta, and sandwiches.
4. Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar cheese is a popular cheese type that’s often used in American cuisine. However, it can also be used as a substitute for Scamorza cheese. Cheddar has a sharp flavor that makes it a good choice for recipes that call for a stronger cheese.
When using cheddar as a substitute, it’s important to note that it has a different texture than Scamorza. However, you can grate it finely to achieve a similar texture. Cheddar is a great substitute for Scamorza in dishes like pizza, pasta, and salads.
5. Fontina Cheese
Fontina cheese is a semi-soft cheese that’s popular in Italian cuisine. It has a nutty flavor that makes it a great substitute for Scamorza cheese. Fontina is also versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes.
When using Fontina as a substitute, it’s important to note that it has a slightly milder flavor than Scamorza. However, you can add a bit of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to achieve a smoky flavor similar to Scamorza. Fontina is a great substitute for Scamorza in dishes like pizza, pasta, and sandwiches.
6. Asiago Cheese
Asiago cheese is a semi-hard cheese that’s similar to Parmesan. It has a nutty flavor and a slightly granular texture that makes it a great substitute for Scamorza cheese. Asiago is often used in Italian dishes like pasta and risotto.
When using Asiago as a substitute, it’s important to note that it has a slightly sharper flavor than Scamorza. However, you can use it in dishes that call for Scamorza cheese, such as pizza and sandwiches.
7. Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese that’s often grated over pasta dishes. However, it can also be used as a substitute for Scamorza cheese. Parmesan has a nutty, slightly salty flavor that makes it a great substitute for Scamorza.
When using Parmesan as a substitute, it’s important to note that it has a different texture than Scamorza. However, you can grate it finely to achieve a similar texture. Parmesan is a great substitute for Scamorza in dishes like pizza, pasta, and salads.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Scamorza cheese is a delicious and versatile ingredient that’s used in many Italian dishes. However, it can be challenging to find in some locations or may be expensive. Fortunately, there are several substitutes that can be used in place of Scamorza without compromising on flavor or texture.
Mozzarella, provolone, smoked Gouda, cheddar, Fontina, Asiago, and Parmesan are all great substitutes for Scamorza cheese. Whether you’re making pizza, pasta, or sandwiches, you can use one of these substitutes to achieve a similar taste and texture to Scamorza.
