What Is Burrata Cheese? Exploring Italy’s Creamy Delight
Burrata is an Italian cheese, made from Mozzarella and cream. It is essentially a fresh Mozzarella shell filled with a soft, stringy, stracciatella and cream, offering a unique textural and flavorful experience.
Unveiling the Origins of Burrata
Burrata cheese, whose name derives from the Italian word burro, meaning butter, is a relatively recent invention. It originated in the Puglia region of Italy, specifically in the town of Andria, in the early to mid-20th century. Legend has it that a cheese maker, Lorenzo Bianchino, created burrata as a way to salvage leftover Mozzarella curds and cream during a heavy snowfall that prevented him from delivering his usual products. This resourceful creation quickly gained popularity for its creamy texture and rich flavor, becoming a staple in Italian cuisine and eventually spreading worldwide.
The Art of Making Burrata: A Step-by-Step Process
The production of burrata is a meticulous and time-sensitive process that requires skilled cheesemakers. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps:
- Preparing the Mozzarella Shell: Fresh cow’s milk (though buffalo milk can also be used) is heated and curdled using rennet. The curds are then stretched and formed into a pouch, much like a Mozzarella ball.
- Creating the Stracciatella Filling: The leftover Mozzarella curds, often from the previous day’s production, are shredded into thin strands. These strands are then mixed with fresh cream. This is the defining element that distinguishes burrata.
- Filling and Sealing: The stracciatella and cream mixture is carefully spooned into the Mozzarella shell. The top of the shell is then twisted and sealed to prevent the creamy filling from escaping.
- Brining: The filled burrata is briefly immersed in a brine solution to enhance its flavor and preserve its freshness.
- Packaging: Traditionally, burrata is wrapped in asphodel leaves, which help to retain moisture and freshness. However, modern packaging often uses plastic containers to ensure safe transportation.
Understanding the Components: Mozzarella vs. Stracciatella
While both are dairy delights, Mozzarella and Stracciatella, the key components of Burrata, boast distinct characteristics:
| Feature | Mozzarella | Stracciatella |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Semi-soft, smooth, and elastic | Stringy, soft, and creamy |
| Flavor | Mild, milky, slightly tangy | Rich, buttery, slightly sweet |
| Form | Ball, log, or braid | Shredded strands mixed with cream |
| Use | Pizza, salads, sandwiches | Filling for burrata, topping for pasta, salads |
The Allure of Burrata: A Flavor and Texture Sensation
The appeal of burrata lies in its contrasting textures and flavors. The firm, slightly chewy exterior shell gives way to a luscious, creamy interior that melts in your mouth. The combination of the mild Mozzarella and the rich, buttery stracciatella creates a complex and satisfying flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions: How to Best Enjoy Burrata
Burrata is best enjoyed fresh and at room temperature to fully appreciate its flavor and texture. Here are some popular serving suggestions:
- With fresh tomatoes and basil: A classic pairing that highlights the cheese’s creamy richness.
- Drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze: A simple yet elegant way to enhance the cheese’s flavor.
- Served with grilled vegetables: The creamy burrata complements the smoky flavors of the vegetables.
- Topped on pizza or pasta: Adds a touch of luxury and richness to your favorite dishes.
- Accompanied by crusty bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy center.
Potential Pitfalls: Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure you’re enjoying burrata at its best, keep these potential pitfalls in mind:
- Serving it cold: Refrigerating burrata dulls its flavor and hardens the texture. Always serve it at room temperature.
- Using old burrata: Burrata is best consumed within a few days of production. Check the expiration date and avoid buying it if it looks or smells off.
- Overpowering it with strong flavors: Burrata has a delicate flavor that can be easily overwhelmed. Avoid pairing it with excessively strong ingredients.
Health Benefits of Burrata Cheese
Burrata, while indulgent, offers some nutritional benefits:
- Protein Source: It’s a good source of protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
- Calcium: It provides calcium, important for bone health.
- Vitamins: It contains vitamins A and B vitamins, contributing to overall health.
However, it’s also high in fat and cholesterol, so moderation is key.
Storing Burrata Properly
To maintain the quality of your burrata, store it properly:
- Keep it refrigerated: Store burrata in its original packaging or in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Consume it quickly: Burrata is best consumed within a few days of purchase.
- Avoid freezing: Freezing will alter the texture and flavor of the cheese.
Recognizing Quality: What to Look For
- Freshness: Burrata should be consumed within a few days of production.
- Appearance: The outer shell should be smooth and white, without any discoloration.
- Texture: The shell should be firm, while the filling should be soft and creamy.
- Smell: Burrata should have a fresh, milky aroma.
Frequently Asked Questions About Burrata Cheese
What is the difference between burrata and mozzarella?
While both are fresh cheeses made from cow or buffalo milk, the key difference lies in their composition. Mozzarella is a solid cheese with a smooth, slightly elastic texture, while burrata consists of a mozzarella shell filled with stracciatella (shredded mozzarella curds) and cream, resulting in a creamy, flowing interior.
Can I make burrata at home?
Making burrata at home is challenging but possible, requiring specialized equipment and skills. You’ll need to master the art of stretching mozzarella curds and creating the stracciatella filling. Numerous recipes and tutorials are available online, but it’s a labor-intensive process.
Is burrata cheese vegetarian?
Typically, yes. However, confirm the type of rennet used. Some cheese makers use animal rennet, which is derived from animal stomachs, whereas others use vegetable or microbial rennet. Cheese made with vegetable or microbial rennet is suitable for vegetarians. Always check the ingredient list or ask the cheesemaker.
How long does burrata cheese last?
Burrata is a fresh cheese that spoils quickly. It’s best to consume it within 3-5 days of its production date. Always check the expiration date and store it properly in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze burrata cheese?
Freezing burrata is generally not recommended. The freezing process alters the cheese’s texture, making the mozzarella shell rubbery and the creamy filling grainy. The overall quality will be significantly diminished. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
What are some good wine pairings for burrata?
The creamy richness of burrata pairs well with crisp, dry white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, and Vermentino. Rosé wines can also be a good choice. Avoid overly oaky or sweet wines, which can clash with the cheese’s delicate flavor.
Is burrata gluten-free?
Yes, burrata is naturally gluten-free as it is made from milk, rennet, and salt. However, always check the packaging to ensure no gluten-containing ingredients have been added during processing or packaging.
Can pregnant women eat burrata cheese?
It is generally recommended that pregnant women avoid consuming unpasteurized soft cheeses due to the risk of listeria. If the burrata is made from pasteurized milk, it is considered safe to eat. Always check the label to confirm that the milk is pasteurized.
What is the best way to warm up burrata?
Burrata is best enjoyed at room temperature, so it doesn’t typically need to be warmed up. Simply remove it from the refrigerator 30-60 minutes before serving to allow it to come to room temperature naturally. Avoid heating it in the microwave or oven, as this can alter its texture.
Where can I buy burrata cheese?
Burrata is becoming increasingly available in specialty cheese shops, Italian delis, and well-stocked supermarkets. You can also find it online from various cheese retailers. Look for reputable suppliers who prioritize freshness and quality.
What is the calorie count of burrata cheese?
The calorie count of burrata varies depending on the brand and size, but a typical 4-ounce serving contains approximately 250-300 calories. It is also relatively high in fat and cholesterol. Consume in moderation.
How do you pronounce burrata?
The correct pronunciation of burrata is “boo-RAH-tah.” The emphasis is on the second syllable. Practice saying it a few times to master the Italian pronunciation!