What is Mozzarisella, the secret behind Pizza Express's vegan pizzas?
For those following a plant-based diet, dining out at mainstream restaurants used to be a challenge, particularly when it came to cheesy dishes. However, high-street chains like Pizza Express have embraced the vegan movement, and the quality of their plant-based offerings has soared. The answer to what vegan cheese does Pizza Express use is the Italian-made Mozzarisella.
Mozzarisella is a dairy-free cheese alternative crafted from cultured brown rice milk. This natural, plant-based ingredient is key to its mild, creamy flavor profile, which differs from traditional dairy mozzarella. It is specifically designed to perform well under the heat of a pizza oven, melting beautifully to give a rich, creamy finish rather than the classic stretchy texture of dairy cheese.
The nutritional context of Mozzarisella
Incorporating Mozzarisella into your nutrition diet offers several advantages. For starters, it is a dairy-free product, which is vital for vegans and those with lactose intolerance. It contains no cholesterol and is often lower in saturated fat compared to its dairy counterpart. This makes it a heart-friendly alternative, aligning with the overall benefits of a plant-based diet, which include lower risks of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
How does Mozzarisella compare to dairy mozzarella?
While both are mozzarella-style products designed for pizza, their composition and nutritional impact differ significantly. The comparison below highlights some of the key differences:
| Feature | Mozzarisella (Vegan) | Dairy Mozzarella (Traditional) |
|---|---|---|
| Key Ingredient | Cultured brown rice milk | Cow's milk |
| Texture when melted | Creamy and smooth | Stretchy and gooey |
| Saturated Fat | Generally lower | Higher |
| Cholesterol | Zero | Contains cholesterol |
| Source of Calcium | May be fortified | Naturally contains high levels |
| Allergens | Dairy-free, lactose-free | Contains dairy, lactose |
| Flavor Profile | Mild, subtle, slightly tangy | Creamy, salty, distinctively cheesy |
General components of vegan cheese
Beyond Mozzarisella, the vegan cheese market is vast and varied, with products made from different plant-based ingredients. Common bases include nuts (cashews, macadamias), soy, tapioca starch, and vegetable oils (especially coconut oil for texture). Flavor often comes from nutritional yeast, miso, and lactic acid.
For those looking to build a well-rounded nutrition diet, understanding these base ingredients is crucial. For instance, nut-based cheeses can offer healthy fats and proteins, while options made from soy provide complete protein. Nutritional yeast adds a boost of B vitamins.
The full vegan menu at Pizza Express
Pizza Express has expanded its vegan options far beyond just cheese, making it a reliable destination for plant-based diners. Their commitment to inclusivity means a comprehensive menu is available.
Some popular vegan options include:
- Starters: Vegan Dough Balls with garlic and parsley spread, and various dips.
- Pizzas: Dedicated vegan pizzas like the Vegan Margherita, Vegan Giardiniera, and Vegan Funghi di Bosco. You can also substitute vegan cheese on other pizza bases.
- Salads & Sides: Options like the Vegan Buddha Bowl or Rainbow Slaw.
- Desserts: A variety of sorbets and other sweet treats.
This variety demonstrates that a plant-based diet doesn't have to be restrictive or bland, even when dining out. Pizza Express's menu proves that nutritious, flavorful vegan meals can be accessible and delicious.
Tips for choosing quality vegan cheese
When navigating the world of vegan cheese, whether in a restaurant or a supermarket, keeping a few things in mind can help you find the best options for your nutrition diet.
- Read the Ingredients: A shorter, more recognizable ingredient list often indicates a less processed product. Look for whole-food bases like nuts, seeds, or legumes.
- Evaluate Melting Properties: Not all vegan cheeses melt the same. If you're using it for pizza, seek out products designed for that purpose, as they contain ingredients like tapioca starch for a stretchier, meltier texture.
- Check Nutritional Value: Compare the saturated fat, sodium, and vitamin content, especially if you rely on fortified products for nutrients like B12.
- Consider Fermentation: Fermented vegan cheeses, often made from cashews, can offer a tangier, more complex flavor profile akin to aged dairy cheese.
For more information on plant-based dining and recipes, you can visit the Veganuary website.
Conclusion
Pizza Express's use of Mozzarisella demonstrates a thoughtful approach to offering a delicious and credible vegan pizza option. For those focusing on a wholesome nutrition diet, this plant-based cheese is a welcome addition, providing a dairy-free alternative without compromising on flavor or the classic pizza experience. By understanding the ingredients and how they differ from traditional cheese, diners can make informed choices that support both their dietary preferences and overall health goals.
