Who does not enjoy cheese? Rich, smooth, salty and savoury, cheese adds a depth of flavour that is immensely satisfying. However, not all types of cheese are savoury. Some can be used for desserts as well. One such cheese is Mascarpone cheese, which is one of the key ingredients in tiramisu. Surprisingly, it has health benefits which is the cherry on top of its taste. Let’s look into this cheese and the nutrients it can provide.
What is Mascarpone Cheese?
Mascarpone is a soft Italian acid-set cream cheese. It is recognized as a traditional agri-food product in Italy. In the late 16th or early 17th century, mascarpone was born in the Italian region of Lombardy.
If you cannot find Mascarpone at a nearby grocery store, you can always DIY! The process is absolutely simple. This Italian acid-set cheese is created simply by adding lemon juice to heated heavy cream, then cooling and draining it of its whey.
Mascarpone has a filling sensation, is milky-white in colour and is easy to spread. It is used in various Lombardydishes and is considered a speciality in the region as it originated from there.
Mascarpone has a mild taste, making it an ideal base for dishes and incorporating various flavours and ingredients.
Mascarpone is one of the centre ingredients in the modern Italian dessert known as tiramisu. It is often used instead of, or along with, butter or Parmesan cheese to thicken and enrich risotto or pasta. Mascarpone also is used in cheesecake recipes. It's also one of the key ingredients in the Italian dessert tiramisu.
Mascarpone Cheese Nutrition
28 grams of Mascarpone contains the following nutrients:
| Nutrients | Measure |
| Calories | 122 |
| Total Fat | 13g |
| Protein | 1.3g |
| Cholesterol | 38mg |
| Sodium | 122mg |
| Potassium | 31mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 0.9g |
| Vitamin A | 9.1% |
| Calcium | 1.7% |
| Iron | 0.5% |
Health Benefits of Mascarpone Cheese
While thinking about Cheese, one doesn’t usually think about its health benefits but a controlled consumption of Mascarpone Cheese can be beneficial.
Mascarpone has very low carbs and is high in calcium, a nutrient very much needed for bone health. It is the perfect food item to stock if you're on a keto diet. Some health benefits of Mascarpone-
- Good source of calcium
- Enables the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, E,D and K
- Source of all amino acids
- Promotes satiety
Good for bones and teeth: Mascarpone cheese, like most dairy-based foods, is rich in calcium, a mineral crucial for the growth of bones and teeth. The calcium absorption will be enhanced if the cheese is made of vitamin D-fortified milk.
Can boost absorption of micronutrients: Certain vitamins are fat-soluble like vitamin A, D, E and K. This means, that unless there is fat in the diet, the body won't get to absorb these vital nutrients. Mascarpone cheese's high-fat content ensures that these vitamins get a vehicle so that they get absorbed in the body.
Good source of protein: Mascarpone cheese can be a good source of protein since it contains all the nine essential amino acids. Proteins are essential nutrients that repair worn-out cells and tissues and promote muscle growth among other things.
Promotes fullness: While it's a high-fat food, mascarpone cheese in small amounts can be very satiating. It can promote fullness and by extension, prevent overeating. If you keep a track of your calories, a small serving of mascarpone cheese can make food enjoyable, filling and even healthy.
Disclaimer:
“The recipes, food, its nutritional value or any other information are developed/shared by expert professionals as per their skill levels. The website shall not be responsible for any consequences arising as a result of using or following any information given in this video/article. Viewers discretion advised.”