Discover the Best Places to Purchase Authentic Provel Cheese: Your Ultimate Guide

Are you a cheese lover craving a unique and delicious experience? Look no further than Provel cheese. This fusion of creamy cheddar, tangy Swiss, and rich provolone is a St. Louis staple known for its distinct flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. But where can you find this delectable treat? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we will explore the best places to buy Provel cheese, as well as some fun facts about its origins and uses. Get ready to take your taste buds on a journey with Provel cheese!

Provel cheese, also known as “St. Louis Provel,” is a unique blend of three different types of cheese – white cheddar, Swiss, and provolone. It was originally created in the St. Louis, Missouri area in the 1940s and has since become a staple in St. Louis-style pizza.

If you’re wondering where you can buy Provel cheese, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about purchasing this popular cheese blend.

What is Provel cheese?

As mentioned before, Provel is a combination of three different cheeses – white cheddar, Swiss, and provolone. While each cheesemaker may have their own specific recipe and ratios, the general composition remains the same.

The result is a smooth and creamy cheese with a mild and slightly tangy flavor. It has a pale yellow color and a semi-soft texture that makes it perfect for melting on pizza or sandwiches.

Where is Provel cheese made?

Provel cheese was first invented by Costa Grocery in the 1940s in St. Louis, Missouri. However, today there are multiple producers of Provel in both Missouri and Illinois.

Some renowned brands that produce Provel include Kraft Foods and Original Volpi Foods – both located in St. Louis.

While it may have originated in the Midwest United States, Provel can now be found in various regions across the country and even internationally.

Where can I find Provel cheese?

If you’re lucky enough to live near one of the regions where Provel cheese is produced, you may be able to find it at your local grocery store or supermarket.

However, for those who don’t have easy access to these areas or are living outside of the United States, there are still options for purchasing Provel cheese.

In-store options

Many major supermarket chains, such as Walmart and Whole Foods, now stock Provel in their cheese section. It may also be found at specialty cheese shops or markets that carry a wide variety of cheeses.

If you can’t seem to find Provel in your local grocery store, don’t be afraid to ask the staff. They may be able to order it for you or let you know when it will be back in stock.

Online options

Thanks to the rise of online shopping, it has become easier than ever to buy Provel cheese from the comfort of your own home. There are several websites that specialize in selling various types of cheese, including Provel.

Some popular online retailers where you can purchase Provel cheese include Amazon, iGourmet, and Galen Smith Cheese. These sites offer a wide variety of brands and sizes of Provel cheese, making it easy to find exactly what you’re looking for.

Local producers and farmer’s markets

Another option for purchasing Provel cheese is to look for local producers or farmer’s markets in your area. This is not only a great way to support small businesses but also ensures that you’re getting freshly made Provel.

You can search online or ask around in your community to see if there are any local producers or farmer’s markets that sell Provel cheese. If not, you may even consider reaching out to them and suggesting they start offering it as a product.

Homemade

For those who love cooking and want complete control over their ingredients, making homemade Provel cheese is an option. A simple search online will bring up numerous recipes for making this unique blend at home.

Making your own Provel may require some special equipment and ingredients, but the end result will be well worth it. Plus, you can customize your recipe to your liking and experiment with different ratios of the three cheeses.

Substitutes for Provel cheese

If you’re unable to find Provel cheese in your area or prefer not to purchase it online, there are some substitutes that you can use in its place. While nothing can truly replicate the flavor and texture of Provel, these alternatives may come close:

– Mozzarella and white cheddar blend
– Monterey Jack and provolone blend
– Gouda and Swiss blend

Keep in mind that these substitutes may affect the overall taste and appearance of your dish, but they can still provide a similar melting quality as Provel.

With its creamy texture and unique blend of flavors, it’s no wonder why Provel cheese has become so popular. Whether you’re using it to top a pizza or melt over a grilled sandwich, purchasing this delicious cheese isn’t as difficult as it may seem.

From online options to local producers, there are plenty of places where you can buy Provel cheese. So next time you’re craving a St. Louis-style pizza or want to try out this beloved cheese blend, you’ll know exactly where to look.

History of Provel Cheese

Provel cheese has a unique history that dates back to the early 20th century. It was first created in the Italian neighborhood of “The Hill” in St. Louis, Missouri when Italian immigrants sought to recreate the famous Provolone cheese from their home country. These immigrants then started experimenting with mixing different types of cheese such as cheddar, Swiss, and provolone to create a new type of cheese that would melt smoothly and evenly without separating.

Eventually, in 1947, chef and businessman named E.W. Kaspar combined these three cheeses with liquid smoke and enzymes creating Provel cheese. This new creation became very popular among Italians and non-Italians alike due to its unique flavor and ability to melt perfectly on pizzas. Today, Provel cheese is still manufactured by Kaspar’s company, using the same original recipe.

How is Provel Cheese Made?

Provel cheese is made by blending three different types of cheese: cheddar, Swiss, and provolone. First, the cheeses are shredded into small pieces and then mixed together with liquid smoke and enzymes. The mixture is then heated until it becomes a smooth consistency before being cooled down into blocks or loaves.

During this process, the enzymes work to create a chemical reaction between the proteins in each type of cheese which causes them to bind together rather than separate when heated. This special process is what gives Provel cheese its signature creamy texture and meltability.

The Unique Taste of Provel Cheese

What sets Provel cheese apart from other types of cheese is its distinctive flavor profile. The combination of cheddar, Swiss, and provolone gives it a complex yet balanced taste that is both nutty and tangy at the same time.

The addition of liquid smoke adds a subtle smokiness that makes it stand out from other types of cheese. This flavor profile makes Provel cheese a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, beyond just pizza.

Where is Provel Cheese Produced?

Provel cheese is primarily produced in St. Louis, Missouri by the very company that first created it, Kaspar’s. The company uses the original recipe and still handcrafts each batch of Provel cheese to ensure consistent quality and taste. However, due to its popularity, Provel cheese is now distributed and sold in select grocery stores and specialty shops across the United States.

Uses for Provel Cheese

Provel cheese has become a staple ingredient in St. Louis-style pizza but it’s also used in many other dishes. Its ability to melt smoothly and evenly makes it perfect for grilled cheese sandwiches, mac and cheese, and even on top of burgers. It can also be used as a substitute for other types of melting cheeses such as American or mozzarella.

Provel cheese has also gained popularity for its use in unique recipes like toasted ravioli, gooey butter cake, and even as a dipping sauce for chicken wings.

Where Can I Buy Provel Cheese?

If you’re wondering where you can buy Provel cheese, the good news is that it’s becoming more widely available outside of St. Louis. Many specialty grocery stores now carry it or you may be able to find it at your local Italian deli or gourmet food shop.

If you’re having trouble finding it locally, there are also several online retailers that offer Provel cheese for purchase with different shipping options available.

Why Choose Provel Cheese?

Aside from its unique flavor profile and versatility in cooking, there are many other reasons why people choose Provel cheese over other types of cheeses. One of the main reasons is its superior melting capabilities. It melts evenly and smoothly without separating, making it perfect for dishes like pizza, grilled cheese sandwiches, and more.

Provel cheese is also free from artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors. This makes it a healthier option than other processed cheeses on the market.

In conclusion, Provel cheese is a one-of-a-kind cheese that has a rich history and unique flavor profile. Made by combining cheddar, Swiss, and provolone with liquid smoke and enzymes, it has become a beloved staple in St. Louis-style pizza but can also be used in a variety of other dishes. With its growing availability in stores and online, there’s no better time to give Provel cheese a try and experience its delicious taste for yourself.

Q: Where can I buy Provel cheese?
A: Provel cheese can be purchased at select grocery stores, specialty cheese shops, and online retailers.

Q: What stores carry Provel cheese?
A: Some grocery stores that carry Provel cheese include Schnucks, Dierbergs, and Straub’s. Specialty cheese shops such as The Cheese Store in St. Louis also carry Provel.

Q: Is Provel cheese available online?
A: Yes, Provel cheese can be purchased from various online retailers such as Amazon, Murray’s Cheese, and the official Imo’s Pizza website.

Q: Can I purchase Provel cheese directly from the producer?
A: No, Provel cheese is not sold directly by its producer. It is distributed to retailers who then sell it to consumers.

Q: Are there any alternative options for purchasing Provel cheese?
A: If you are unable to find Provel cheese in your area or prefer not to purchase it from a store or online retailer, you can try making it at home using a combination of cheddar, Swiss, and provolone cheeses.

Q: Can I order Provel cheese for delivery?
A: Some local pizza shops in the St. Louis area offer delivery of dishes made with Provel cheese. However, it may not be possible to order just the cheese for delivery unless you are able to find a specialty retailer that offers this service.

In conclusion, Provel cheese is a unique and beloved cheese that originated in St. Louis, Missouri. Its distinct flavor and versatility have made it a popular choice among locals and food enthusiasts alike. Despite being widely available in the Midwest, many people outside of the region may find themselves wondering, “Where can I buy Provel cheese?”

While traditional grocery stores may not carry this regional specialty, there are several online retailers that offer Provel cheese for purchase. Furthermore, some specialty cheese shops or local markets may also carry it. Additionally, for those willing to take on a DIY approach, there are various recipes available to make Provel cheese at home.

However, it is essential to note that Provel cheese does have its controversies surrounding its ingredients and production methods. It is also crucial for customers to be aware of where their Provel cheese is coming from and if it aligns with their dietary and ethical preferences.

Ultimately, whether one buys Provel cheese online or in-store, it is a unique and flavorful addition to any dish or consumed on its own. Its origin story and regional popularity only add to its allure. And with the growing popularity of online shopping and specialty food retailers, finding this beloved cheese outside of the Midwest has become much easier.

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