Mascarpone
Description
Mascarpone is a thick, creamy cheese often used in Italian cooking. It's recognized for its smooth texture that easily blends into various dishes. Made from heavy cream and an acid like lemon juice or citric acid, mascarpone is a staple in desserts like tiramisu. In recipes, you might see mascarpone measured in ounces (oz) or grams (g), with 1 oz equaling approximately 28g. It can also be measured by volume in tablespoons (tbsp), cups (c), milliliters (ml), or liters (l).
Common uses
Mascarpone is frequently used in desserts, spread on bread, or stirred into sauces and soups to add creaminess. It also serves as a rich filling for pastries or a base for dips and frostings.
Nutritional value
Calories
Approximately 120 calories per 1 ounce (28 grams).
Protein
Contains about 2 grams of protein per 1 ounce (28 grams).
Fat
Contains roughly 12 grams of fat per 1 ounce (28 grams), predominantly saturated fat.
Carbohydrates
Typically contains less than 1 gram of carbohydrates per 1 ounce (28 grams).
Vitamins
Provides a small amount of vitamins such as vitamin A.
Minerals
Contains trace amounts of calcium and phosphorus.
Health benefits
While mascarpone is high in fat, it also contributes a small amount of protein and calcium which are important for bone health. Its vitamin A content can support vision and immune function.
Potential risks
Due to its high saturated fat content, consuming mascarpone in large quantities may increase the risk of heart disease. It is also high in calories, which could contribute to weight gain if eaten in excess.
Common recipes
Commonly found in recipes for tiramisu, cheesecakes, and as a topping for fresh fruit.
Cooking methods
Mascarpone can be used as is, or gently heated to smoothly blend into sauces and soups.
Pairing with other ingredients
Perfectly pairs with fresh berries, chocolate, espresso, and various herbs and spices for savory preparations.
Summary
Mascarpone cheese is a luxuriously creamy ingredient, essential in classic Italian desserts and adaptable to a wide range of culinary applications. Its rich texture and subtle sweetness complement both sweet and savory dishes, though mindful consumption is advised due to its high-fat content.