If you’re a fan of delicious Italian cuisine, you’ve likely encountered ricotta, a creamy and velvety cheese that adds a touch of luxury to countless dishes. With its smooth texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor, ricotta has earned a special place in the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide! That’s why one of your favorite Nashua restaurants, Soprano’s Pizza, is here to discuss a bit of history on one of our favorite cheeses, along with what makes it so great!
The Roots of Ricotta
Ricotta has an ancient history that dates back to the Roman Empire. Its name, “ricotta,” originates from the Latin words “recoctus” or “recocta,” which means “recooked.” The cheese got this name because it’s traditionally made by the whey leftover from other cheesemaking processes. Italian shepherds and farmers discovered this way of utilizing excess whey, all while minimizing waste.
The Art of Ricotta Making
The production of ricotta involves a simple yet fascinating process. To make the cheese, the leftover whey (a byproduct of cheesemaking, typically from cow, sheep, or goat milk) is heated until the proteins and fats in the whey separate and coagulate. The coagulated mixture is then scooped out, drained, and collected. The result is a luscious and fluffy, creamy cheese!
The Various Versions of Ricotta
One of the most incredible things about ricotta is the fact that its versatility knows no limits. It can be enjoyed in both sweet and savory dishes! Ricotta is excellent in desserts like cannolis, where it’s mixed with sugar to create a rich filling. It’s also a key ingredient in ricotta cheesecakes, adding a luxurious and airy texture.
Another popular food you’ll find this cheese on is pizza. We’d like to say ricotta on pizza is a match made in culinary heaven. Whether you’re craving a pizza with classic ricotta and spinach, vegetables, or even ricotta and fig with a drizzle of honey, there are countless variations!
Soprano’s Pizza | Nashua Restaurants
If you’re craving a dish with ricotta after this blog, we encourage you to stop by Soprano’s to explore all of our specialty pizza options, or create your own! To view all of our other selections, check out our online menu today. In the meantime, we look forward to dining with you!
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