What’s the difference between Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese?

Mozzarella cheese doesn’t have an overpowering taste, whereas Parmesan cheese has a robust flavor that is generally fruity, salty, and nutty. Mozzarella generally tastes creamy and mild, while Parmesan has an intense, savory flavor. They are used differently in cooking, and due to their distinct flavors, they can’t be used interchangeably. Although they are both types of cheese, their characteristics are quite distinct. However, one important similarity between the two is that both can be paired with wine.

Read on to learn more about these two cheese varieties including their nutritional content, how they are served, and which types of wines are best paired with them.

Mozzarella Cheese

Mozzarella cheese originated in southern Italy and was introduced as early as the first century. Typically, it is prepared using buffalo’s or cow’s milk. But there are cheese manufacturers who also make use of sheep’s and goat’s milk.

Mozzarella Cheese: Flavor and Texture

This cheese may taste simple and mild but it’s what makes it powerful and distinct from other cheese varieties. It is dense and stringy, and typically looks pale ivory or creamy white in color. Most pizza lovers, if not all, know that this is the most ideal cheese for pizzas.

Generally, mozzarella cheese has a short shelf life. However, cheese makers apply an aging process that doesn’t only prolong its shelf life but also enhances its taste.

Mozzarella Cheese: Health Benefits

Similar to other cheese varieties, Mozzarella has several health benefits too. Among these are the following:

1. Good for the Gut
2. Good for the Bones
3. Low Risk of Heart Disease
4. Low Sodium Content
5. High Protein Content

 Let’s briefly discuss each one of them.

1.   Good for the Gut

While mozzarella cheese can contain probiotics if it’s manufactured using live bacterial cultures, it isn’t typically considered a primary source of probiotics compared to fermented foods such as yogurt or kefir. However, research on probiotics and antimicrobial proteins suggests that this cheese variant may have some benefits for gut health. Probiotics play a significant role in our gut health and can help improve the health of our immune system.

2.   Good for the Bones

Mozzarella cheese can contribute to bone health, including the health of the teeth, due to its zinc, phosphorus, and calcium content. They are all essential for maintaining strong and healthy bones and teeth.

While consuming mozzarella as part of a balanced diet can support dental health by providing these important nutrients, it is still important to practice good oral hygiene habits, including regular brushing and flossing, for optimal dental health and cavity prevention.

3.   Low Risk of Heart Disease

The nutrition content of Mozzarella cheese includes high moisture, less total fat, and less saturated fat. High intake of saturated fat, unfortunately, increases risk of heart disease. While Mozzarella may not directly prevent heart problems, at least it doesn’t significantly contribute to any cardiovascular disease if consumed moderately.

4.   Low Sodium Content

Between Mozzarella and Parmesan, the former generally contains less sodium. While sodium is necessary for the proper function of our nerves and muscles, excessive intake can lead to health issues such as high blood pressure, water retention, and an increased risk of heart and kidney diseases. It’s important to monitor sodium intake as part of a balanced diet to maintain overall health.

5.   High Protein Content

This type of cheese is rich in protein, a vital nutrient present in basically every cell in our bodies. Protein not only supports cell growth and repair but also plays a crucial role in the production of hormones, enzymes, and antibodies. This then contributes to a strengthened immune system, making Mozzarella an ideal source of energy.

Mozzarella and Wine

While Pinot Grigio is an Italian-style white wine that pairs perfectly with Mozzarella cheese, there are many other wines that complement this cheese variant.

For white wines, try pairing Mozzarella with Chenin Blanc Dry, Vermentino, or Sauvignon Blanc. For sparkling wines, consider Sparkling Rosé, Prosecco, or classic Champagne. For red wines, Mozzarella pairs well with Valpolicella, Beaujolais, and Pinot Noir.

Mozzarella also pairs well with dessert wines such as Fino Sherry and White Port.

Marinated Mozzarella

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of part-skim mozzarella cheese, cubed
• 1/3 cup of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, crushed
• 1 tablespoon of oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 teaspoon of chives, minced
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil

 

Procedure:

Combine and mix the last seven ingredients in a large bowl. Add the Mozzarella cubes then stir to coat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for approximately 30  minutes. Serve cold.

Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan cheese has been regarded as the ‘King of Cheeses.’ In fact, Parmigiano Reggiano, the full and legally protected name of Parmesan, was recognized by the experiential travel online guide TasteAtlas in 2023 as the Best Cheese in the World.

This cheese variant is made from unpasteurized cow’s milk, where whole milk collected in the morning is mixed with skimmed milk from the previous evening. This process results in a partly-skimmed mixture that is then pumped into copper-lined vats. These vats distribute heat uniformly and provide copper ions to the mixture.

Parmesan Cheese: Flavor and Texture

Parmesan is hard and gritty in texture, and it is firmer compared to aged cheddar. It has a slightly sharp taste, providing an enjoyable lingering flavor.

The ideal maturing stage for Parmesan typically takes about 2 years, although some varieties mature for up to 4 years. When properly stored in the fridge, an unopened Parmesan cheese typically has a shelf life of about 9 months. However, once opened, its shelf life decreases to 1 to 2 weeks.

Parmesan Cheese: Health Benefits

Parmesan cheese has several health benefits, including:

1. High Protein Content
2. Good for Bone Health
3. Safe for Lactose-Intolerant Individuals

Like Mozzarella, Parmesan is beneficial for bone health and is rich in protein. However, Parmesan is distinct in that it is safe for lactose-intolerant individuals. This is because its maximum lactose content measures only 0.10 mg per 100 kilocalories.

Parmesan and Wine

Prosecco sparkling wine pairs perfectly with the saltiness of Parmigiano Reggiano. However, there are other wines that complement this cheese well, too.

For red wines, Parmigiano Reggiano pairs well with Barbaresco, Chianti, and Cabernet Sauvignon. For white wines, you may want to try Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer, and Chardonnay. For sparkling wines, consider Sekt, Cava, and Champagne.

Parmesan also pairs perfectly with dessert wines such as Vin Santo, Port, and Sherry.

Parmesan Crisps

Ingredients:

            1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, freshly ground

            2 ounces or 1/2 cup of fresh Parmesan cheese, grated

Procedure:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. With a parchment paper, line a large baking sheet.
3. On the prepared baking sheet, transfer tablespoonfuls of cheese. Place them 2 inches apart from each other.
4. Spread the mound measuring 2-inch diameter each. Then, sprinkle pepper on them.
5. Bake them until they are crisp and golden, which is for about 6-8 minutes.
6. Set aside to fully cool on the baking sheet. Then, remove them using a spatula.

Conclusion: Mozzarella vs Parmesan Cheese

To conclude, Mozzarella and Parmesan have such unique flavors, it’s hard to pick a favorite—it definitely comes down to what you like best. They’re pretty similar in terms of nutrition, but Parmesan is the way to go if you’re lactose intolerant. But then, as long as you don’t go overboard, enjoying either cheese in moderation is absolutely fine.

When it comes to wine, pairing Mozzarella with a nice Pinot Grigio is a winner, while Prosecco is the perfect match for Parmesan. But then again, it’s all about what tickles your taste buds, right?