Which Mozzarella Is The Best For A Cheese Tasting Party?

Hosting a cheese-tasting party can be a lot of fun or it can be stressful. There are so many things to think of; what types of cheeses to use being at the top of the list. Then you need to worry about what other foods to serve along with the cheeses. Crackers? Baguettes? Fruit? Veggies? All of the above? Relax! It’s a party! Put out the foods you want and like, and enjoy spending time with your guests. After all, a party should be more about friends and family than about the amazing spread you’ve been able to put out.

Including Mozzarella

When deciding on the variety of cheeses to have, one of them should be mozzarella. In case you didn’t know, mozzarella comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and textures. There is the American version, store-bought from the dairy case of your favorite grocery store. This is probably fine, unless you have a “cheese snob” on your guest list. Some consider this version to be inferior, but if you like it, use it.

Buffalo Milk Mozzarella

Another twist on mozzarella is the mozzarella di bufala, which is made from rich Italian buffalo milk. Although much more expensive, it is highly praised for its buttery, fluffy texture. It can also be made from cow’s milk. It should be used when it is at its freshest. Mozzarella di Bufala goes very well with fruits.

Mozzarella Balls

Bocconcini mozzarella comes in bite-sized balls, making it perfect for a cheese tray. Bocconcini are most often made from cow’s milk. Try marinating them for an even tastier treat and some variety.

Smaller yet, ciliegine mozzarella balls are about the size of a cherry. In fact, the name comes from the Italian word for cherry. For something different, alternate ciliegine with cherry tomatoes on a skewer.

Smoked Mozzarella

No cheese tray would be complete without some smoked mozzarella. Either cow or buffalo milk mozzarella can be used. Usually this version is cold smoked over cherry wood, chestnut, alder, apple, pecan, or hickory, and acquires a lovely golden-brown color. Place small slices on crackers and melt in the oven just before serving. Or make small tomato and mozzarella finger sandwiches.

Scamorza

Scamorza is a firmer, drier version of mozzarella, and it comes in a pear or ball shape, either plain or smoked. It will melt well, so it works well on crackers or small squares of bread which are then toasted in the oven.