Cheese Database

Caciocavallo vs Scamorza

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.

Scamorza, field guide plate
Scamorza, photographed

Scamorza

Facts

Milk
Cow
Texture
Semi-soft
Type
Stretched curd
Rind
No rind
Country
Italy

Scamorza is an Italian stretched-curd cheese with a firmer, drier body than fresh mozzarella. It is made from cow's milk and formed into a pear shape or a small oval with a narrow top. The paste is pale, elastic, and mild, with a light tang. Many pieces are smoked, and those taste deeper and look golden at the surface. Unsmoked scamorza stays white and tastes cleaner.