A semi-hard cow’s milk cheese, originally from Italy, lends a distinctive flavor profile to pizza. When incorporated into the pizza-making process, it presents an alternative to more common cheeses like mozzarella or provolone. The cheese, often grated or shaved, melts well under heat, contributing a creamy, nutty taste and slightly pungent aroma to the overall culinary experience.
The use of this cheese on pizza introduces a more complex flavor dimension, differentiating it from standard offerings. Its relatively low moisture content compared to some other cheeses can result in a pleasing texture after baking, avoiding a soggy crust. Historically, regional Italian pizzas may have featured this cheese as a local ingredient, reflecting the availability of dairy products within specific geographical areas. The adoption of this practice adds culinary variety and expands the range of flavor possibilities in pizza preparation.