Burrata

ITALIAN FOOD

From Puglia to Your Plate: The Journey of Burrata Cheese

Burrata originated in the Puglia region of Southern Italy, a place renowned for its rich culinary traditions and high-quality Italian cheese. The cheese was initially created as a way to use up leftover mozzarella curds, transforming them into a new and delightful delicacy.

The production of burrata begins with the finest quality cow’s milk or a mixture of cow and buffalo milk. The milk is pasteurized and then curdled using rennet, creating the base for the cheese.

Burrata shares a part of its production process with mozzarella, known as pasta filata. During this process, the curds are heated in whey or water and then stretched and kneaded until they reach a pliable consistency. This stretched curd forms the outer shell of the burrata, providing a delicate and soft texture.

The heart of burrata lies in its creamy center, a mixture of stracciatella (shredded mozzarella) and fresh cream. This mixture is spooned onto the stretched curd, creating a luscious filling that oozes out when the cheese is cut.

Once filled, the burrata is carefully sealed, forming a round pouch that encases the creamy center. This step requires skill and precision, as the cheese must be sealed tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out while maintaining its signature shape.

The production of burrata is a testament to the skill and tradition of Italian cheesemakers. From the careful selection of ingredients to the precise crafting of the cheese, every step in the production of burrata is taken with passion and dedication.

Burrata: A Century-Old Tradition of Italian Cheesemaking

Burrata, a creamy and luxurious cheese, has captured the hearts of food lovers around the world. But how did this delightful delicacy come to be, and what is its story?

Burrata originated in the Puglia region of Southern Italy, a place known for its rich culinary traditions and high-quality dairy products. The cheese was invented in the early 20th century, around the 1920s, on a farm in the town of Andria. It was initially created as a way to utilize leftover mozzarella curds, transforming them into a new and delightful delicacy.

The creation of burrata was driven by the need to minimize waste and make the most of available resources. Farmers took the leftover curds from mozzarella production, mixed them with fresh cream, and encased the mixture in a pouch of stretched mozzarella. This not only preserved the curds but also resulted in a cheese with a unique texture and flavor profile.

While burrata started as a local delicacy, it quickly gained popularity throughout Italy and eventually around the world. Its creamy center and delicate outer shell made it a hit among cheese enthusiasts, and it became a sought-after ingredient in gourmet kitchens.

Today, burrata is celebrated as a culinary treasure, enjoyed for its rich flavor and luxurious texture. It has become a staple in Italian cuisine and a beloved ingredient in kitchens worldwide.

Recipes with Burrata: how to use it in the kitchen

Burrata, with its creamy interior and delicate mozzarella shell, has become a culinary sensation, gracing tables and tantalizing taste buds worldwide.

One of the most classic and beloved ways to enjoy burrata is in a simple salad with ripe heirloom tomatoes. Drizzle olive oil, sprinkle sea salt, and add fresh basil leaves to create a dish that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. The creamy burrata complements the juicy tomatoes, while the basil adds a touch of freshness.

For a unique twist, pair burrata with grilled peaches. The smokiness of the grilled fruit contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the cheese, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Add arugula, balsamic glaze, and a sprinkle of pistachios for a salad that is sure to impress.

Burrata also pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables. Try roasting a medley of seasonal vegetables such as asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers, then top with a generous serving of burrata. The warmth of the vegetables will slightly melt the cheese, creating a rich and comforting dish.

Elevate your pizza game by adding burrata. Prepare a pizza with your favorite toppings, bake until almost done, and then add dollops of burrata in the last few minutes of cooking. The result is a gooey, cheesy pizza that is a step above the rest.

For an elegant and easy-to-make appetizer, top crostini with a slice of prosciutto, a piece of burrata, and a drizzle of honey. The saltiness of the prosciutto, creaminess of the burrata, and sweetness of the honey create a delightful bite-sized treat.