Luckily for ricotta, there are a few options for a substitute. The decisive factor here is not so much the taste, but the consistency, because that is what makes the cream cheese. We give you 5 alternatives here.
5 ways to substitute ricotta
The substitute for ricotta should be similar to the popular cream cheese from Italy – i.e. with a light and soft consistency. The whey product has a fresh, creamy taste.
- For vegans, silken tofu is, therefore, an animal-free alternative to ricotta. The consistency of this type of tofu is almost identical, so you can use the same amount when cooking.
- Cottage cheese is particularly similar. This is also characterized by a mild flavor and has a grainy consistency, but cottage cheese is slightly more moister than ricotta. So keep this in mind when preparing your food.
- Indian Panir cheese also shows similarity in flavor and texture. But it is a bit spicier and also rarer in the trade.
- With sour cream or crème fraîche, you will find a simple and good alternative. Like ricotta, both dairy products are creamy. However, these two variants are a lot milder in taste than ricotta. You should therefore season your dish a little more.
- Of all the variants, mascarpone cheese comes closest in consistency to ricotta. The double-cream cream cheese gets its thickness and unique taste with the addition of citric, tartaric, or acetic acid.