Mozzarella is a favored cheese topping for pizza.
Mozzarella cheese has roots traceable to Italy as a curd cheese product. Italians originally made it from water buffalo milk. In most countries today, however, mozzarella begins with cow's milk to keep the price affordable, while maintaining the distinctive flavor and texture profile. Unlike an aged cheese, mozzarella is best when it's fresh. It's also sensitive to air and heat exposure, which can lead to this favored pizza cheese souring. There are several ways you can determine if mozzarella cheese is longer usable for your pizza pie.
Instructions
1. Check the expiration date on the package. This date indicates the recommended disposal time. However, sealed cheese might last longer than that. On average, a commercially packaged block of mozzarella lasts six to eight months in the freezer and remains suitable for pizza for two to three months in the refrigerator when properly wrapped, even after opening.
2. Crumble a small piece of cheese in your hand. Mozzarella breaks easily and still feels soft when it's usable. If the cheese has a dry, crunchy texture or lacks elasticity, the exterior layers minimally are no longer suitable for culinary use. If you see any visible mold, throw all the cheese away.
3. Smell the cheese. All cheese bears some aroma, but mozzarella has a cleaner scent. If it smells sour, throw it out. Fresh mozzarella lasts about seven to 10 days in the refrigerator before the liquid around it begins spoiling. To extend the shelf life for use on pizza, change the water after three days, or drain the cheese and wrap it tightly with plastic food wrap.
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