FOOD
How to actually stop cheese falling off pizza. Don’t use glue!
AI can be a useful tool in some instances, but as a recent article is shown should not be relied on for everything.
Punch in a question into Google’s AI about how to keep cheese on top of pizza and it will give you a bizarre answer. As The Verge found, it will suggest to “Add some glue. Mix about 1/8 cup of Elmer’s glue in with the sauce. Non-toxic glue will work.”
It shouldn’t need emphasising that this would not work and glue is not fit for human consumption.
But the problem is a common one: how do you prevent the cheese sliding off? First, we need to know why it does.
Why sliding cheese happens
There are two main reasons why cheese wants to run off of your pizza:
- Too much sauce creates a watery layer. The cheese, naturally hydrophobic (water-fearing), struggles to form a bond with the wet surface, leading to slippage.
- Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that prevent them from clumping in the bag. Unfortunately, these same agents can hinder the melting process, creating a crumbly cheese that doesn’t stick well.
Sorting the problem
Cheese quality is important. Fresh, low-moisture mozzarella is the champion of meltability. It stretches and forms a cohesive layer. Alongside this, a thin layer of tomato sauce is needed. Spread it evenly, leaving a small border of exposed crust around the edge. Simmer the sauce on the stovetop to reduce excess moisture if needed.
Alternatively you can try some tricks. Start with a light sprinkle of cheese directly on the dough, followed by your toppings. Finish with a generous layer on top, creating a melty barrier that holds everything together.