What is Burrata?

What is burrata?

Burrata is a type of fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. It’s a soft cheese that is traditionally made by hand. 

Burrata is often served as a starter or as part of a cheese platter, and it can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other ingredients such as bread, fruit, or vegetables. It’s also commonly used as a filling for dishes such as pasta or sandwiches, and it can be found in many Italian restaurants and specialty cheese shops.

What does burrata taste like?

Burrata has a rich, creamy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. The flavor of burrata is similar to that of mozzarella, but it is typically slightly richer and more indulgent due to the addition of cream.

When cut open, the inside of burrata reveals a soft, creamy center that adds to its rich and indulgent flavor. The cheese has a delicate, slightly tangy taste and a smooth, velvety texture that makes it an enjoyable and satisfying cheese to eat.

What is the history/origin of burrata?

Burrata is believed to have originated in the Apulia region of Italy in the early 20th century. It’s generally thought to have been developed as a way to use up scraps of mozzarella that were left over from cheese-making. The cheese is made by filling a thin shell of mozzarella with a mixture of cream and shredded mozzarella, shaped into a round or pear-shaped form, and wrapped in a thin layer of cheesecloth or muslin. Over time, burrata has become a popular and widely enjoyed cheese not only in Italy but around the world.

How is burrata served? 

There are several ways to serve burrata, depending on your preference and the occasion. Some common ways to serve burrata include:

• On its own: Burrata can be enjoyed on its own as a starter or as part of a cheese platter. 
• As a salad: Burrata can be used as a topping for salads, adding a rich and creamy element to the dish. It’s commonly served with peaches, balsamic vinaigrette, and basil. 
• As a filling: Burrata can be used as a filling for dishes such as pasta, sandwiches, or crostini.
• As a dessert: Burrata can be served as a dessert by pairing it with sweet accompaniments such as honey, fruit, or chocolate.

How do you make burrata? 

Here's how to make burrata:

1. In a large pot, heat the milk over medium heat until it reaches 90°F. 
2. Stir in the citric acid, and continue heating the milk until it reaches 105°F.
3. Stir in the rennet, and continue heating the milk until it reaches 135°F.
4. Remove the pot from the heat, and let the milk sit for 30 minutes or so to allow it to coagulate.
5. Using a knife or a curd cutter, cut the curds into small, evenly sized pieces.
6. Place the pot back on the heat, and heat the curds over medium heat until they reach 165°F.
7. Line a colander with cheesecloth, and place it over a large bowl. Carefully pour the curds into the colander, and let them drain.
8. Once the curds have drained, transfer them to a bowl and mix in the heavy cream and a pinch of salt. Using your hands, shape the mixture into round or pear-shaped balls.
9. Place each ball of burrata into a piece of cheesecloth or muslin, and wrap it tightly.

Whether served as a starter, used as a filling for dishes such as pasta or sandwiches, or enjoyed as part of a cheese platter, burrata is a delicious choice that’s likely to impress and delight.