Provolone: Difference between revisions

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'''Provolone''' is a type of [[Italian cheese]] that is semi-hard in texture and made from [[cow's milk]]. It is a full-fat cheese that is smooth and firm, with a pale yellow color. The flavor of Provolone can vary from mild and sweet to sharp, depending on the age of the cheese.
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== History ==
[[File:Provolone_watermelon_shape.jpg|thumb|right|A traditional watermelon-shaped provolone cheese]]


Provolone originated in [[Southern Italy]], where it was produced in small, handmade batches. Today, it is made in large quantities in both Italy and the [[United States]], and is a popular cheese worldwide.
'''Provolone''' is a semi-hard [[cheese]] originating from [[Italy]], known for its smooth texture and mild to sharp taste. It is a member of the [[pasta filata]] family, which includes other cheeses like [[mozzarella]] and [[caciocavallo]].


== Production ==
==History==
Provolone has its roots in Southern Italy, particularly in the regions of [[Campania]], [[Calabria]], [[Apulia]], and [[Sicily]]. The cheese became popular in the late 19th century when cheesemakers from Southern Italy migrated to the northern regions, bringing their cheese-making techniques with them. Today, the most renowned production of provolone occurs in the [[Po Valley]], particularly in the regions of [[Lombardy]] and [[Veneto]].


The production of Provolone involves the use of cow's milk, which is heated and combined with [[rennet]], a type of enzyme. The mixture is then allowed to curdle, and the curds are cut and heated until they become elastic. The curds are then shaped into the distinctive Provolone shape, which can be a pear, sausage, or cone shape. The cheese is then aged, which can take anywhere from a few months to over a year.
==Production==
Provolone is made from [[cow's milk]] and is produced using the pasta filata method, where the curd is kneaded and stretched to achieve the desired consistency. The cheese is then molded into various shapes, such as the traditional "watermelon" shape, as well as cylindrical and pear shapes. After shaping, the cheese is salted and aged for a period ranging from a few months to over a year, depending on the desired flavor profile.


== Uses ==
==Varieties==
Provolone comes in two main varieties:


Provolone is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is often used in [[sandwiches]], [[pasta dishes]], and [[pizza]]. It can also be eaten on its own or with [[crackers]] or [[bread]].
* '''Provolone Dolce''': This is a mild version of provolone, aged for 2-3 months. It has a smooth, creamy texture and a sweet, delicate flavor.


== Health Benefits ==
* '''Provolone Piccante''': This version is aged for more than four months and has a sharper, more pronounced flavor. The aging process allows the cheese to develop a more complex taste, often with spicy undertones.


Provolone is a good source of [[protein]] and [[calcium]], and also contains [[vitamin A]] and [[vitamin B12]]. However, it is also high in [[fat]] and [[sodium]], so it should be eaten in moderation.
==Uses==
 
Provolone is a versatile cheese used in a variety of culinary applications. It can be sliced for [[sandwiches]], melted in [[cooking]], or served as part of a [[cheese platter]]. Its ability to melt smoothly makes it a popular choice for [[pizza]] and [[pasta]] dishes.
== See Also ==


==Related pages==
* [[Cheese]]
* [[Cheese]]
* [[Italian cuisine]]
* [[Italian cuisine]]
* [[List of cheeses]]
* [[Pasta filata]]
 
* [[Mozzarella]]
[[Category:Cheese]]
[[Category:Italian cuisine]]
[[Category:Dairy products]]


{{stub}}
[[Category:Italian cheeses]]
[[Category:Cow's-milk cheeses]]
[[Category:Stretched-curd cheeses]]

Latest revision as of 11:33, 15 February 2025


A traditional watermelon-shaped provolone cheese

Provolone is a semi-hard cheese originating from Italy, known for its smooth texture and mild to sharp taste. It is a member of the pasta filata family, which includes other cheeses like mozzarella and caciocavallo.

History[edit]

Provolone has its roots in Southern Italy, particularly in the regions of Campania, Calabria, Apulia, and Sicily. The cheese became popular in the late 19th century when cheesemakers from Southern Italy migrated to the northern regions, bringing their cheese-making techniques with them. Today, the most renowned production of provolone occurs in the Po Valley, particularly in the regions of Lombardy and Veneto.

Production[edit]

Provolone is made from cow's milk and is produced using the pasta filata method, where the curd is kneaded and stretched to achieve the desired consistency. The cheese is then molded into various shapes, such as the traditional "watermelon" shape, as well as cylindrical and pear shapes. After shaping, the cheese is salted and aged for a period ranging from a few months to over a year, depending on the desired flavor profile.

Varieties[edit]

Provolone comes in two main varieties:

  • Provolone Dolce: This is a mild version of provolone, aged for 2-3 months. It has a smooth, creamy texture and a sweet, delicate flavor.
  • Provolone Piccante: This version is aged for more than four months and has a sharper, more pronounced flavor. The aging process allows the cheese to develop a more complex taste, often with spicy undertones.

Uses[edit]

Provolone is a versatile cheese used in a variety of culinary applications. It can be sliced for sandwiches, melted in cooking, or served as part of a cheese platter. Its ability to melt smoothly makes it a popular choice for pizza and pasta dishes.

Related pages[edit]