In recent years, the world of cheese has exploded with new, exciting varieties—think cheeses infused with all kinds of chili peppers, or bold, piquant herbs and spices. While we love these innovations, it’s time to shine the spotlight on a timeless classic: Provolone.

They say you can never go wrong with a classic, and we agree. Cheese consumption in the U.S. has surged, with Americans enjoying an average of 42 pounds of cheese per person Among the top 10 favorite cheeses, Provolone stands proudly alongside staples like Cheddar, Mozzarella, and Parmigiano. This shows that, while trendy flavors may take center stage, the demand for versatile, well-loved cheeses remains strong.

Now, don’t get us wrong – we’re not suggesting abandoning the new and unconventional—those cheeses have their place. But when it comes to a reliable, delicious, and versatile option for your shoppers, Provolone is the go-to classic that should always be in stock.

About Provolone

What is Provolone?

Provolone is a semi-firm cow’s milk cheese with roots in southern Italy, loved for its wide range of flavors – from mild and buttery to sharp and tangy. Introduced to Lombardy in the 18th century by Neapolitan cheesemakers, Provolone is part of the pasta filata family, meaning the curds are pulled and stretched before being worked, by hand, into their final shape—a technique also used for mozzarella. But unlike mozzarella, which is enjoyed fresh, Provolone is aged to develop its distinctive sharpness. The longer it’s aged, the more intense the flavor becomes, offering a delightful balance of savory, nutty, and slightly sweet notes.

The name “Provolone” comes from the Italian word prova, referring to its traditional round shape. Today, Provolone is made in various forms, such as the large mandaroni, cylindrical salami, and the smaller provoletti, all hung with sturdy ropes to ensure even drying during aging.

History of Provolone

Provolone has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries. Its origins trace back to southern Italy, but its production spread to northern regions like Lombardy in the 1700s. In 1993, Provolone earned its PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) status from the European Union under the name Provolone Valpadana, ensuring that only cheeses made in specific regions using traditional methods can carry the name. With this certification, Provolone’s legacy is safeguarded, ensuring only the finest quality and time-honored methods go into making each form.

Production Process

Provolone’s magic lies in its simplicity: cow’s milk, rennet, salt, and time.

The cooperative that produces our Vantia Provolone is made of only nine shareholders, which means perfect control over the quality of the milk. In fact, the milk is collected daily, no further than 8 miles from the production facility.

Once collected, the raw milk is heated, and rennet is added to form curds.

The curds are then broken, drained, and cooked for 5 to 8 hours. Large blocks of curd are then cut to the desired size of the final product.

Afterward, the curds are stretched – the key step that gives Provolone its signature springy, yet never rubbery texture.Once shaped, the cheese is bathed in a light brine, hand-tied with ropes, dipped in wax, and hung to dry and age.

Types of Provolone

As it ages, Provolone develops a unique flavor profile, ranging from the mild, smooth Dolce to the sharp bite of Piccante.

Provolone Dolce: Aged for 2-3 months, this younger Provolone offers a mild, creamy flavor with a hint of sweetness. Its soft, pliable texture makes it ideal for snacking, melting into a panini, or adding a comforting, milky layer to baked dishes.

Provolone Piccante: For those who love bold flavors, Provolone Piccante is the sharper, more mature option. Aged for at least 4 months (and often much longer), it develops a robust, tangy flavor with nutty undertones and a firmer, slightly granular texture. You’ve likely seen these aged cheeses hanging from the ceiling in traditional Italian delis, often with a plastic bag tied to the bottom to catch the natural oils that drip as the cheese ages. The result? A sharp, assertive cheese that brings a burst of flavor to any dish.

Vantia Provolone Mandarini (11P038)

Among the many varieties of Provolone, Vantia Provolone Mandarini truly shines with its bold flavor and distinctive shape. Aged for 8 months, making it a Provolone Piccante, this cheese develops a rich, sharp, and tangy taste that deepens over time, revealing layers of savory and nutty notes complemented by a hint of sweetness. The thickness and unique shape of Mandarini allow for a slow, even aging process, resulting in a more nuanced flavor profile. Its firm yet pliable texture is perfect for slicing and melting, making it very versatile. These impressive forms, shaped like a mandarin (hence the name), can weigh up to 90 pounds, making a striking presence in Italian delis and specialty shops. With its rich flavor and iconic shape, Provolone Mandarini exemplifies why this classic cheese continues to be a beloved choice for cheese lovers everywhere.

Culinary Uses

One of Provolone’s most impressive qualities is its versatility. Thanks to its distinct flavor profiles and textures, it fits seamlessly into an array of dishes and applications:

• Slicing: Whether mild or sharp, Provolone slices beautifully, making it a go-to option for sandwiches, charcuterie boards, or simply as a snack on its own.
• Melting: Provolone’s meltability is exceptional. As it melts, Provolone turns creamy and lush without losing its flavor, making it perfect for layering in lasagnas, topping pizzas, or adding a cozy, melted layer to a classic grilled cheese.
• Grating: Aged varieties, such as Provolone Piccante, grate well and add a robust kick to dishes. Sprinkle it over baked pasta, salads, or roasted vegetables to introduce a touch of sharp, nutty flavor that balances beautifully with other ingredients.

Whether you lean toward the smooth, sweet notes of Provolone Dolce or the bold, sharp character of Provolone Piccante, this classic cheese reliably elevates any dish. Trends may come and go, but Provolone remains a trusted favorite, valued for its authentic flavor and versatility. When stocking your cheese case, give Provolone the spotlight it deserves and inspire your shoppers to rediscover its potential to enhance their favorite recipes!