Aged Cheese vs Mozzarella Cheese
Aged Cheese is a cheese, while Mozzarella Cheese is soft, creamy and made from cow, goat, sheep, or buffalo milk, originating in Italy.
What Is Aged Cheese?
Aged cheese is cheese that has gone through ripening, the stage after manufacture when enzymes, bacteria and moulds build its taste, texture and body. Ripening runs from about three weeks to more than two years, and all cheese except fresh cheese gets it.
What Is Mozzarella Cheese?
Mozzarella is a semi-soft, non-aged cheese from southern Italy, made by stretching and kneading the curd. Cow's milk versions are called fior di latte, buffalo milk versions mozzarella di bufala, and it tops most pizza.
What's the Difference Between Aged Cheese and Mozzarella Cheese?
- Aging: Aged Cheese (three weeks to two or more years), Mozzarella Cheese (Eaten fresh)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aged Cheese | Mozzarella Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | — | Italy |
| Specific Origin | — | Southern Italy |
| Milk Type | — | Cow's, goat's, sheep's or water buffalo's milk |
| Milk Treatment | — | Pasteurized |
| Texture | — | Soft, creamy |
| Rind | — | None |
| Aging | Three weeks to two or more years | Eaten fresh |
| Taste | — | Mild, milky |
Taste Comparison: Does Aged Cheese Taste Like Mozzarella Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct. Aging plays into this as well. Aged Cheese at three weeks to two or more years develops a different profile than Mozzarella Cheese at eaten fresh.
Can You Substitute Aged Cheese for Mozzarella Cheese?
Aged Cheese can stand in for Mozzarella Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.
Which Is Better, Aged Cheese or Mozzarella Cheese?
There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want.
Which is your favorite?
One click, anonymous. See what others chose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Aged Cheese the same as Mozzarella Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. Aging also differs: Aged Cheese is typically aged three weeks to two or more years, Mozzarella Cheese eaten fresh.
Is Aged Cheese similar to Mozzarella Cheese?
Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.
Can I substitute Aged Cheese for Mozzarella Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.
Does Aged Cheese taste like Mozzarella Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is Aged Cheese made of?
Aged Cheese is made from milk. It's typically aged three weeks to two or more years.
What is Mozzarella Cheese made of?
Mozzarella Cheese is made from cow, goat, sheep, or buffalo milk (pasteurized), using calf's or microbial rennet. It's typically aged eaten fresh. It originates in Italy.
Which should I choose, Aged Cheese or Mozzarella Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.