How To Store Provolone Cheese

TL;DR

• Store provolone cheese at 35-45°F (1-7°C) with 70-80% humidity for optimal freshness
• Use cheese paper or airtight containers for short-term storage to maintain quality
• Freeze provolone in small portions for long-term storage up to 6 months
• Always handle cheese with clean hands and utensils to prevent contamination
• Discard provolone if you notice any signs of mold, unusual odors, or texture changes

Introduction

Provolone cheese, with its rich, nutty flavor and smooth texture, is a beloved Italian cheese that graces countless dishes and cheese boards. But even the finest provolone can lose its charm if not stored properly. Mastering the art of cheese storage isn’t just for connoisseurs—it’s essential for anyone who wants to savor every bite of this versatile cheese.

Proper storage is the unsung hero of cheese enjoyment. It preserves the delicate balance of flavors, maintains that perfect texture, and ensures your provolone stays fresh until the last slice. Let’s dive into the world of provolone preservation and unlock the secrets to keeping your cheese in prime condition.

Types of Provolone Cheese

Provolone comes in two main varieties: dolce and piccante. Dolce, meaning “sweet” in Italian, is aged for just a few months. It boasts a mild, creamy flavor that’s perfect for sandwiches and melting. Piccante, on the other hand, is the feisty cousin. Aged for over four months, it develops a sharper, more complex flavor that cheese aficionados adore.

These different personalities don’t just affect your taste buds—they also influence how you should store your cheese. Younger dolce provolone requires gentler handling, while the robust piccante can withstand slightly more varied conditions. Keep this in mind as we explore storage methods to ensure your cheese stays in top form, regardless of its age.

Ideal Storage Conditions

Temperature Considerations

Temperature is the puppet master of cheese storage. Too warm, and your provolone might start to sweat and spoil. Too cold, and you risk freezing the cheese, altering its texture. The sweet spot? A cool 35-45°F (1-7°C). This range mimics the conditions of a cave, where cheeses have traditionally been aged for centuries.

Your refrigerator’s cheese drawer is often the ideal location. It maintains a consistent temperature and protects the cheese from the fluctuations that occur when the main fridge door is opened. If your fridge runs cold, place the cheese in the warmest part, usually the top shelf or door.

Humidity Control

Humidity plays a crucial role in cheese storage, acting as a delicate balancer between dryness and moisture. Too dry, and your provolone will crack and become hard. Too moist, and you’re inviting unwelcome mold to the party. The ideal relative humidity for storing provolone is between 70-80%.

Creating the perfect humid environment at home might sound like a challenge, but there are simple solutions. Storing your cheese in a plastic container lined with a damp paper towel can help maintain humidity. Just be sure to change the paper towel regularly to prevent mold growth. For a more hands-off approach, invest in a cheese dome or a dedicated cheese storage container with built-in humidity control.

Short-Term Storage Methods

Original Packaging

Sometimes, the simplest solution is the best. If you plan to consume your provolone within a week, keeping it in its original packaging is often sufficient. The packaging is designed to protect the cheese and maintain its freshness for a short period.

However, once you’ve opened the package, the clock starts ticking. After opening, wrap the cheese tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before returning it to the fridge. This method works well for pre-sliced provolone, but for whole pieces, you might want to explore other options for optimal freshness.

Airtight Containers

Airtight containers are the superheroes of cheese storage. They create a protective barrier against odors and moisture, keeping your provolone fresh and preventing it from absorbing flavors from other foods in your fridge. Look for containers with a tight-fitting lid and enough space for the cheese to breathe.

To use an airtight container effectively, wrap your provolone in wax paper or cheese paper first. This allows the cheese to breathe while still benefiting from the container’s protection. For added humidity control, place a small, damp paper towel in the corner of the container, but ensure it doesn’t directly touch the cheese.

Cheese Paper

Cheese paper is the connoisseur’s choice for storing provolone and other fine cheeses. This specialized paper allows the cheese to breathe while maintaining the right level of humidity. It’s like a cozy, high-tech sleeping bag for your cheese.

To use cheese paper, simply wrap your provolone snugly, folding the edges to create a secure package. Label it with the type of cheese and date of wrapping, then store it in your fridge’s cheese drawer. Cheese paper is reusable, so don’t toss it after one use—simply replace it when it becomes damp or soiled.

Long-Term Storage: Freezing

While cheese enthusiasts might cringe at the thought, freezing provolone is a viable option for long-term storage. It’s not ideal for maintaining texture, but it can extend the life of your cheese by several months. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Cut the cheese into portions no larger than 1/2 pound.
2. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, removing as much air as possible.
3. Place the wrapped cheese in a freezer bag, squeezing out excess air before sealing.
4. Label the bag with the date and cheese type.
5. Freeze for up to 6 months.

When you’re ready to use the frozen provolone, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw slowly over 24-48 hours. Use it within a few days of thawing, and be prepared for a slightly crumblier texture—perfect for grating over pasta or salads.

Proper Handling Techniques

Handling your provolone with care is crucial for maintaining its quality and preventing contamination. Always start with clean hands and use clean utensils. When serving, try to handle the cheese by its rind or use cheese paper as a barrier.

Allow your provolone to come to room temperature before serving—about 30 minutes on the counter should do the trick. This allows the flavors and aromas to fully develop. After serving, promptly return any leftover cheese to proper storage to maintain freshness.

Signs of Spoilage

Even with the best storage practices, it’s important to know when your provolone has passed its prime. Trust your senses—they’re your best allies in detecting spoilage.

Visual cues are your first line of defense. Look for any unusual coloring, especially blue, green, or pink spots that weren’t part of the original cheese. If you see fuzzy mold growth, it’s time to say goodbye to your provolone.

Your nose knows best when it comes to cheese. Provolone should have a pleasant, slightly sharp aroma. If you detect any sour, ammonia-like, or rotten smells, it’s a clear sign that the cheese has spoiled.

Texture changes can also indicate spoilage. If your provolone feels slimy or excessively dry and cracked, it’s best to discard it. Remember, when in doubt, throw it out. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to food safety.

Extending Shelf Life

Maximizing the lifespan of your provolone doesn’t require a degree in food science—just a few simple practices. First and foremost, minimize exposure to air. Every time you unwrap your cheese, you’re introducing new bacteria. Use clean utensils and rewrap promptly after each use.

Consider portioning your provolone if you’ve bought a large piece. Keep what you’ll use in a week in your primary storage container, and freeze the rest. This way, you’re only exposing a small portion to air and temperature changes at a time.

Rotate your cheese stock using the “first in, first out” principle. Use older cheese before newer purchases to ensure nothing lingers too long in your fridge. With these practices, you can enjoy your provolone at its best for weeks to come.

Food Safety Considerations

Food safety is paramount when it comes to cheese storage. Always check the expiration date before purchasing and consuming provolone. Once opened, try to consume the cheese within 5-7 days for optimal freshness and safety.

Cross-contamination is a silent culprit in food spoilage. Use separate utensils for your provolone and other foods. If you’re creating a cheese board, provide a different knife for each cheese to prevent flavor mixing and bacterial spread.

If you notice any signs of spoilage, err on the side of caution and discard the cheese. The risk of foodborne illness isn’t worth the few extra bites of cheese, no matter how delicious it might be.

Common Questions and FAQs

Q: Can I store provolone at room temperature? A: While provolone can sit out for a few hours during serving, it should be refrigerated for storage. Room temperature encourages bacterial growth and can lead to spoilage.

Q: How long does provolone last in the fridge? A: Properly stored, an unopened package of provolone can last 2-3 weeks in the fridge. Once opened, try to consume it within 5-7 days for the best quality.

Q: Can I eat provolone if it has a little mold? A: Unlike some hard cheeses, it’s best to discard provolone if you see any mold growth. The moisture content in provolone allows mold to penetrate deeper than what’s visible on the surface.

Q: Should I remove provolone from the fridge before serving? A: Yes, allowing provolone to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving enhances its flavor and texture.

Q: Can I freeze sliced provolone? A: Yes, you can freeze sliced provolone. Separate the slices with wax paper before wrapping and freezing to prevent them from sticking together.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of storing provolone cheese elevates your culinary experience from good to extraordinary. By understanding the nuances of temperature, humidity, and handling, you’re not just preserving cheese—you’re honoring the craft and tradition behind this Italian delicacy.

Armed with these insights, you’re ready to become a guardian of great cheese. So go forth, experiment with different storage methods, and discover the joy of perfectly preserved provolone. Your cheese board (and your taste buds) will never be the same.