Cheese Database

Caciocavallo vs Provolone

Caciocavallo, field guide plate
Caciocavallo, photographed

Caciocavallo

Facts

Milk
Cow
Texture
Semi-hard
Type
Stretched curd
Rind
Natural rind
Country
Italy

Caciocavallo is an Italian stretched-curd cheese made from cow's milk. The usual shape is a pear or a small gourd, with a narrow neck where a cord is tied. Makers hang the cheeses in pairs over a beam, and that pose explains the name. A thin natural rind covers a firm pale paste that slices cleanly. Young cheese is mild and supple, and older cheese turns drier, saltier, and fit for grating.

Provolone, field guide plate
Provolone, photographed

Provolone

Facts

Milk
Cow
Texture
Semi-hard
Type
Stretched curd
Rind
Waxed or sealed
Country
Italy
Place
Southern Italy

Provolone is a stretched-curd cow's-milk cheese from southern Italy that is hung and aged. Dolce is young and mild. Piccante is older and sharper.