Mascarpone: Recipes, Price, Storage

This Italian cheese is not only the key ingredient in the famous dessert tiramisu, but it also lends itself to a multitude of savory and sweet preparations.

Here are some recipe ideas and additional information!

Simple recipes using mascarpone

Classic Tiramisu

Tiramisu is undoubtedly the dessert where mascarpone reigns supreme. Here's a traditional version that's easy to make at home.

1. Ingredients: 500g mascarpone, 4 eggs, 100g sugar, 300ml black coffee, 1 sachet vanilla sugar, 30 ladyfinger biscuits, unsweetened cocoa powder.
2. Separate the egg yolks from the whites.
3. Whisk the egg yolks with the sugar and vanilla sugar until pale.
4. Add the mascarpone to this mixture, stirring until you obtain a smooth texture.
5. Whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gently fold them into the previous mixture.
6. Quickly dip the biscuits in the cooled coffee and arrange a first layer at the bottom of a dish.
7. Cover with a layer of the mixture.
8. Alternate layers of soaked biscuits and cream in this way.
9. Finish with a layer of cream and sprinkle generously with cocoa.
10. Leave to rest in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.

Chicken with mascarpone sauce and mushrooms

For a successful dinner party, try this chicken with mascarpone and mushroom sauce. Easy and delicious, it's a dish that will wow your guests.

1. Ingredients: 4 chicken fillets, 200g mushrooms, 250g mascarpone, 1 onion, 2 garlic cloves, olive oil, 1 glass of chicken stock, salt, pepper, herbs of Provence.
2. Sauté the finely chopped onion and crushed garlic in a little olive oil until golden brown.
3. Add the chicken fillets, which have been previously seasoned with salt and pepper, and cook them on each side until browned.
4. Set the fillets aside and put the sliced ​​mushrooms in the pan. Sauté them until they are nicely browned.
5. Deglaze with the chicken stock, add the herbs de Provence and let it reduce slightly.
6. Incorporate the mascarpone while mixing until you obtain a smooth sauce.
7. Return the chicken fillets to the pan, cover and simmer over low heat for about 15 minutes.
8. Serve hot, accompanied by rice or fresh pasta.

Choosing and storing mascarpone

Storage instructions

Always store it in the refrigerator at a temperature between 0 and 4 °C.

Ideally, use it within three days of opening to retain all its qualities. If you have a large surplus, please note that it does not freeze well; it is best to incorporate it into various dishes quickly.

Be sure to use clean utensils when scooping the mascarpone to avoid contamination and thus prolong its shelf life.

Its price

brand mascarpone Galbani sells for around €10 per kilo. A 250g tub costs approximately €2.50. It's an affordable product, especially when it comes to enhancing your desserts or even certain savory recipes.

The benefits of mascarpone

Nutritional values ​​of Galbani mascarpone (per 100g)

Mascarpone is clearly a rich food, with 403 kcal per 100 g and 41 g of fat.

Among these, there are 28g of saturated fatty acids, which makes it a product to consume sparingly if you are watching your calorie intake.

However, it remains rather low in carbohydrates with 4g, of which 3g are sugars.

Although often perceived as rich and high in calories, mascarpone has some interesting nutritional benefits. A valuable source of calcium, it contributes to maintaining bone health. It also contains proteins essential for muscle repair and growth.

Given its high fat content, it should be consumed in moderation, especially for people watching their calorie intake.

A morale booster

Beyond its nutritional value, mascarpone offers a true taste pleasure. Its creamy texture and its ability to enhance both sweet and savory dishes make it a valuable ally in the kitchen.

Enjoying a dish containing mascarpone can brighten up a meal and bring comforting satisfaction.

What is the difference between mascarpone and crème fraîche?

Mascarpone is considered a cheese because of its method of production. Although it is made from cow's milk cream, this cream is heated to 100 degrees Celsius before lemon juice is added to curdle it.

Fresh cream, on the other hand, comes directly from raw milk and does not undergo this transformation process, which gives it a lighter texture and taste.

The texture

Mascarpone is thicker and creamier than crème fraîche, which gives it better stability when incorporated into culinary preparations.

The taste

Mascarpone has a slightly tangy and sweet taste, while crème fraîche has a more pronounced and lactic flavor.

Fat content

Mascarpone is richer in fat (approximately 40%) than fresh cream (between 30 and 35% depending on the variety).

How to choose between mascarpone and crème fraîche?

It all depends on your preferences and the recipe you want to make:

• For a sweet preparation, mascarpone is preferred because of its sweetness and creaminess.
• For savory recipes, crème fraîche is more commonly used, especially in quiches, gratins and other dishes made with vegetables or meat.

Feel free to experiment and vary the pleasures by alternating the use of these two ingredients in your favorite recipes.

What's in mascarpone?

Mascarpone is essentially thick fresh cream, coagulated using citric or acetic acid. This process gives it its ultra-smooth texture and slightly sweet flavor. It's a typical ingredient in Italian cuisine.

Can mascarpone be eaten on its own?

Yes. However, as it is very rich, it's best enjoyed in small quantities. Some people like to combine it with fresh fruit or honey for a delicious little dessert.

What is the difference between Philadelphia and mascarpone?

Philadelphia . cream cheese is much firmer and saltier, while mascarpone is softer, creamier, and sweeter. Mascarpone is perfect for desserts, while Philadelphia works better in savory recipes, such as cheesecakes or open-faced sandwiches

In terms of texture, mascarpone is smoother and less grainy than Philadelphia.

Can I substitute fresh cream for the mascarpone?

Yes, but be aware: the result won't be the same. Fresh cream is lighter and more acidic. If you substitute mascarpone in a dessert recipe like tiramisu, expect a different, lighter texture and taste.

This may work in some recipes, but you will lose some of that rich and indulgent aspect.

Can I substitute mascarpone for cream cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cream cheese , especially in desserts. It will give a creamier texture and a milder taste.

For a cheesecake, for example, mascarpone can add an Italian touch and a more melt-in-your-mouth consistency.