The white, creamy, bland cheese known as ricotta acquired its name, which in Italian means recooked, from its being made from leftover whey, the liquid remaining after making other cheeses such as pecorino or mozzarella. This leftover whey must be put through a second curdling or “cooking” before it can be turned into ricotta. English adopted the word ricotta in the mid nineteenth century, although in the sixteenth century the word ricoct, derived from ricotta, was briefly used as a synonym for curds.
Mascarpone, an Italian cheese with a velvety texture, adds a touch of luxury to various culinary creations. This unsalted cottage cheese serves as a delectable filling for ravioli and finds its place in beloved dishes like cannelloni and lasagne. Mascarpone also lends its creamy richness to cheesecakes and the decadent Sicilian cake known as cassata, along with an assortment of other pastries. Its versatility and smooth consistency make it a cherished ingredient in both savory and sweet delights.