Caciocavallo

Caciocavallo Cheese: A Guide to its Flavor, Uses, and Differences

What is caciocavallo cheese?

This beautiful Italian cheese is made in Southern Italy. The Italian word literally translates to “cheese on horseback,” which describes the unique way the cheese is made. This stretched curd cheese, made from either cow’s milk or sheep’s milk, is attached to rope and then hung over a wooden beam to age. The result is a distinctive teardrop or gourd-shaped cheese that gains earthy, salty tones due to its full 360-degree exposure.

This "horse cheese" is a type of Italian cheese that has been enjoyed for centuries. Made from the milk of cows, goats, or sheep, this cheese has a distinctive flavor and texture that sets it apart from other cheeses.

What does Caciocavallo taste like?

This cheese has a slightly tangy and salty flavor, with a mild sweetness and a hint of nuttiness. The texture is semi-firm and slightly elastic, making it perfect for slicing and grating. The flavor of this cheese intensifies as it ages, making it a great choice for those who like their cheese with a more robust flavor.

What is Caciocavallo cheese similar to?

This cheese is often compared to other Italian cheeses like Provolone and mozzarella. However, its flavor and texture are unique and cannot be replicated by any other cheese. Some describe the flavor of this Italian cheese as similar to a mild, nutty gouda.

Is Caciocavallo similar to mozzarella?

While Caciocavallo and mozzarella are both Italian cheeses, they have distinct differences. Mozzarella is a fresh cheese with a soft, smooth texture and a mild, slightly salty flavor. Caciocavallo, on the other hand, is a semi-firm cheese with a tangy and slightly nutty flavor.

What is Caciocavallo cheese good for?

This cheese is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. It is great for grating over pasta dishes or as a topping for pizzas. It can also be sliced and enjoyed as a snack or appetizer, paired with crackers, bread, or fruits.

How do you eat Caciocavallo cheese?

This cheese can be eaten in a variety of ways. It is often sliced and enjoyed as a snack or appetizer, paired with crackers, bread, or fruits. It can also be grated over pasta dishes such as pasta filata or used as a topping for pizzas. Additionally, it can be melted and used as a topping for sandwiches or as a dipping sauce for vegetables.

What is the difference between Provolone and Caciocavallo?

While both Provolone and Caciocavallo are Italian cheeses, they have distinct differences. Provolone is a semi-hard cheese with a sharp, tangy flavor and a smooth, firm texture. Caciocavallo, on the other hand, has a slightly tangy and salty flavor with a mild sweetness and a hint of nuttiness. Additionally, Provolone is typically aged for a longer period of time, which gives it a more robust flavor compared to Caciocavallo.