Shredded Mozzarella: A Culinary Gem for Pizza, Pasta, and More
Shredded mozzarella, a beloved cheese around the world, is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that adds a delectable touch to countless dishes. Its mild and slightly tangy flavor, coupled with its unique stringy texture, makes it an indispensable component in many culinary creations.
Historical Origins of Mozzarella
The origins of mozzarella can be traced back to the Campania region of Italy, where it was traditionally made from buffalo milk. Today, mozzarella is primarily produced from cow's milk, creating a cheese that is still creamy and flavorful, but with a slightly different texture. The distinctive stringy texture of mozzarella is attributed to the stretching and kneading process, known as pasta filata, which aligns the proteins and creates the characteristic elasticity.
Culinary Applications of Shredded Mozzarella
Shredded mozzarella is a key ingredient in many classic Italian dishes, including:
- Pizza: Mozzarella is the traditional topping for many pizzas, adding a gooey and flavorful layer to this beloved dish.
- Pasta: Shredded mozzarella can be added to pasta dishes to create a creamy and comforting sauce, or sprinkled on top for a golden-brown crust.
- Lasagna: Mozzarella is an essential component of lasagna, providing a rich and flavorful layer between the pasta sheets and meat sauce.
- Caprese salad: A simple yet elegant salad, caprese combines fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Melted cheese sandwiches: Shredded mozzarella can be used to create a gooey and satisfying grilled cheese sandwich or a decadent fondue.
Shredded mozzarella is also a versatile ingredient for a variety of other dishes, including salads, sandwiches, and even baked goods.
Nutritional Value of Shredded Mozzarella
A 1-cup serving of shredded mozzarella cheese provides approximately:
- Calories: 261
- Protein: 20 grams
- Fat: 17 grams
- Carbohydrates: 6.9 grams
- Fiber: 0 grams
- Sugar: 1.9 grams
Shredded mozzarella is a good source of protein and calcium, making it a nutritious addition to many dishes.
How many calories are in Shredded Mozzarella?
Each 1 cup of Shredded Mozzarella contains 261 calories.
Shredded Mozzarella Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per 1 cup (86g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 261 Calories |
| Protein | 20g |
| Fat | 17g |
| Saturated Fat | 9.9g |
| Cholesterol | 0.056mg |
| Carbohydrates | 6.9g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g |
| Sugar | 1.9g |
| Sodium | 0.587mg |
| Potassium | 0.1127mg |
| Calcium | 0.616mg |
| Iron | 0.0002mg |