Provel cheese

Provel Cheese

Provel cheese

Provel cheese is a white processed cheese particularly popular in the St. Louis area. It is known for its unique flavor and texture, which is a blend of several different cheeses. Provel is commonly used in the preparation of St. Louis-style pizza, a regional specialty.

Composition

Provel cheese is a combination of cheddar, Swiss, and provolone cheeses. This blend gives Provel its distinctive taste and texture, which is both creamy and slightly tangy. The cheese is processed to have a low melting point, making it ideal for use in dishes where a smooth, melted cheese is desired.

Characteristics

Provel is known for its:

• Low melting point: This characteristic makes it perfect for pizza and other baked dishes.
• Creamy texture: Unlike traditional mozzarella used on pizzas, Provel has a creamier consistency.
• Distinctive flavor: The combination of cheddar, Swiss, and provolone gives it a unique taste that is both sharp and buttery.

Uses

Provel cheese is most famously used on St. Louis-style pizza, which features a thin, cracker-like crust and is cut into squares rather than wedges. It is also used in other local dishes such as:

• Toasted ravioli
• Cheese garlic bread
• Salads

History

Provel cheese was developed in the mid-20th century, specifically for the St. Louis market. Its creation is attributed to the need for a cheese that would melt well on the thin crust of St. Louis-style pizza without becoming stringy like mozzarella.

Related Pages

• St. Louis-style pizza
• Processed cheese
• Cheddar cheese
• Swiss cheese
• Provolone cheese