Scamorza
A semi-soft Italian stretched-curd cheese from the mozzarella family, tied into a pear shape and aged. It comes in plain and smoked varieties and melts beautifully when heated.
What Is Scamorza?
Scamorza is a semi-soft cow’s milk cheese from Southern Italy, belonging to the same “pasta filata” (stretched-curd) family as mozzarella. It gets its characteristic pear shape from being tied with string at the top and hung to age.
It has less moisture and a firmer texture than mozzarella, so it melts well without breaking apart when heated. It comes in two main varieties: plain (bianca) and smoked (affumicata).
Nutritional Values of Scamorza
Like other stretched-curd cow’s milk cheeses, Scamorza contains about 334 kcal of energy per 100 grams, along with high amounts of protein and fat; it is a rich source of calcium. The values are approximate and based on a similar cheese profile.
What Are the Benefits of Scamorza?
With its protein and calcium content, Scamorza can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet; attention to sodium is also recommended for the smoked variety.
This information is general; Scamorza is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment.
How to Choose Scamorza
Good Scamorza has a regular pear shape, a smooth surface, and a clean aroma. The smoked variety has a golden-brown rind; the plain variety is ivory-colored.
- The surface should be smooth and the shape regular
- The plain variety should be ivory-colored, and the smoked variety golden-brown
- It should smell clean, not sour
How to Store Scamorza
Scamorza keeps for 1–2 weeks in the refrigerator when wrapped in cheese paper; breathable packaging is preferred. Once cut, it should be used sooner.
Using Scamorza in the Kitchen
Scamorza is most often melted on the grill, on pizza, in gratins, and in oven-baked dishes; its firm texture also works well when grilled in slices. The smoked variety adds a smoky aroma to food.
How to Grill Scamorza
Cook thick slices of Scamorza briefly on a hot grill or in a pan, until the edges are browned and the center is soft; serve hot with bread and vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Scamorza and mozzarella?
Both are stretched-curd cheeses; Scamorza has less moisture, is firmer, and is aged, so it melts without breaking apart. Mozzarella is fresher and wetter.
How is smoked Scamorza used?
Smoked Scamorza is used in pizza, pasta, and vegetable dishes to add a smoky flavor; even a small amount gives a distinct aroma.
Why is Scamorza hung to age?
Tying it with string and hanging it gives it its characteristic pear shape and helps it dry evenly.