Mozzarella is a type of white cheese that is commonly seen on pizza. It is usually shredded into medium length shreds compared to parmesan that is usually shredded more finely. Parmesan cheese is also used in Italian dishes but it is usually not on pizza. Instead, people put parmesan cheese on spaghetti. Parmesan cheese is usually not eaten in large quantities compared to other cheeses. It is only sprinkled on top.
Another difference between mozzarella and parmesan cheese is that mozzarella is softer and contains more moisture. Parmesan cheese is harder and brittle because it doesn’t contain as much moisture. Parmesan cheese has a distinct taste whereas mozzarella has a fainter taste and smell to it. However, both cheeses are great in Italian food.
There are a few big differences between Mozzarella and Parmesan. Before you even touch or taste the cheeses, you will smell a distinct difference. Mozzarella generally does not have a strong smell; however, Parmesan can have quite the odor. In fact, many people find Parmesan to smell similar to foot odor. This is because of the naturally-occurring fatty acids found within the cheese. Of course, with strong smells comes strong tastes, and Parmesan has an unmistakable nutty taste.
Mozzarella has a slightly acidic taste and milky taste, not at all overpowering. The last difference is the textures of the cheeses. Mozzarella is very soft which is why it is used so often on pizzas—it is easy to melt. Parmesan is an example of a hard cheese with a higher melting point.