The world of cheese is vast and varied, with each type offering its unique flavor profile, texture, and history. Among the plethora of cheeses, burrata stands out for its unique presentation and delightful surprise within. Burrata, an Italian cheese, has gained popularity worldwide for its creamy, stringy, and indulgent nature. But, have you ever wondered, what cheese is inside burrata? This article delves into the intriguing world of burrata, exploring its origins, the cheese inside, and why it has become a favorite among cheese lovers.
Introduction to Burrata
Burrata is a type of Italian cheese that originated in the region of Puglia. The name “burrata” comes from the Italian word for “buttered,” which refers to the cheese’s creamy center. It is essentially a ball of mozzarella filled with a mixture of stracciatella and cream. This description alone sparks curiosity about the cheese inside burrata, which we will explore in depth.
Origin and History
The history of burrata dates back to the 1920s in Andria, a town in the Puglia region. It was created as a way to use the leftovers of mozzarella production, such as the stracciatella, which is shredded mozzarella, and the cream from the water buffalo milk. The innovative cheese makers decided to enclose these ingredients within a mozzarella shell, creating a cheese that is both familiar and surprising.
Evolution of Burrata
Over the years, burrata has evolved, and its production has spread beyond Puglia. However, traditional burrata is still made according to the original method, often by hand, to maintain its high quality and the surprise that awaits inside. The evolution of burrata has also led to variations, with some producers experimenting with different types of cheese and fillings, but the classic version remains the most sought after.
The Cheese Inside Burrata
So, what cheese is inside burrata? The core of burrata is filled with stracciatella, which is a mixture of shredded mozzarella (usually made from the milk of water buffalo) and cream. This filling is the essence of burrata, providing its characteristic creaminess and stringiness. When you cut into a burrata, the creamy interior flows out, mixing with the solid mozzarella exterior, creating a delightful culinary experience.
Stracciatella: The Heart of Burrata
Stracciatella is the Italian term for “little rags” or “shreds,” referring to the shredded mozzarella that makes up part of the filling. This shredded cheese is mixed with cream, creating a smooth, velvety texture that complements the mozzarella shell perfectly. The quality of the stracciatella is crucial to the overall taste and experience of burrata, as it provides the majority of the flavor and the satisfying stringiness when pulled apart.
Cream and Seasoning
In addition to stracciatella, the filling may include a touch of cream to enhance the texture and flavor. Some producers may also add a pinch of salt or other seasonings to bring out the flavors of the cheese and cream. These additional ingredients are used sparingly, ensuring that the natural flavors of the mozzarella and stracciatella remain the focal points.
Why Burrata is Loved Worldwide
Burrata has gained international recognition and admiration for several reasons. Its unique presentation, where the cheese appears solid until cut, adds an element of surprise and fun to any meal. The combination of the creamy stracciatella and the firmer mozzarella shell provides a contrasting yet harmonious texture, appealing to a wide range of palates.
Versatility in Cooking
One of the reasons burrata has become a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike is its versatility. It can be served as an antipasto, added to salads for a creamy element, baked with vegetables, or even used as a topping for pizzas and pasta dishes. Its mild flavor makes it a perfect base for various seasonings and ingredients, allowing it to fit into numerous culinary contexts.
Culinary Innovations
The creativity with burrata does not stop at traditional recipes. Modern chefs and food enthusiasts are constantly finding new ways to incorporate burrata into their dishes. From using it in fusion cuisine to creating vegan alternatives, the possibilities with burrata are endless. This adaptability has contributed significantly to its global popularity, as it can be easily adapted to different culinary traditions and preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cheese inside burrata is a blend of stracciatella (shredded mozzarella) and cream, enclosed within a shell of mozzarella. This unique composition gives burrata its distinctive taste, creamy texture, and the delightful surprise when cut open. Whether you are a cheese aficionado, a foodie, or simply someone who enjoys good cuisine, burrata is a must-try. Its origins in Puglia, Italy, its evolution over the years, and its versatility in cooking have all contributed to its status as a beloved cheese around the world. So, the next time you encounter burrata, remember the creamy secret inside and the rich history behind this Italian delicacy.
What is burrata cheese and where does it originate from?
Burrata cheese is a type of Italian cheese that originated in the region of Puglia, specifically in the city of Andria. It is a ball-shaped cheese that consists of a mixture of mozzarella, cream, and shredded stracciatella, which is a type of Italian cheese that is similar to mozzarella but has a more delicate flavor and texture. The cheese is typically served as an antipasto or appetizer, and its creamy interior and mozzarella exterior make it a unique and delicious addition to any meal.
The origins of burrata cheese date back to the 1920s, when it was first created by a cheese maker named Lorenzo Bianchino. According to legend, Bianchino was looking for a way to preserve the excess mozzarella and cream that he had in his factory, and he came up with the idea of filling a ball of mozzarella with a mixture of cream and shredded stracciatella. The resulting cheese was an instant hit, and it quickly became popular throughout Italy and eventually around the world. Today, burrata cheese is enjoyed by people all over the globe, and it is often served in high-end restaurants and specialty cheese shops.
What type of cheese is typically used to make the filling of burrata?
The filling of burrata cheese is typically made with a type of Italian cheese called stracciatella, which is a shredded or torn version of mozzarella. Stracciatella has a delicate flavor and a soft, creamy texture that makes it perfect for the filling of burrata. The cheese is usually mixed with cream and sometimes other ingredients such as butter or Parmesan cheese to create a rich and creamy filling. The stracciatella cheese is often made from the milk of water buffalo, which gives it a unique flavor and texture that is different from mozzarella made from cow’s milk.
The combination of stracciatella cheese and cream creates a delicious and creamy filling that is the hallmark of burrata cheese. When you cut into a ball of burrata, the creamy filling spills out and mixes with the mozzarella exterior, creating a delicious and indulgent treat. The stracciatella cheese is also a key component of the flavor and texture of burrata, and it helps to set this cheese apart from other types of cheese. Whether you are a cheese enthusiast or just looking to try something new, the stracciatella filling of burrata cheese is sure to delight your taste buds.
Can I make burrata cheese at home, or do I need to buy it from a store?
While it is possible to make burrata cheese at home, it can be a bit of a challenge. To make burrata, you will need to have some experience with cheese making, as well as access to the right ingredients and equipment. You will need to make the mozzarella exterior and the stracciatella filling from scratch, and then assemble the cheese by filling the mozzarella with the stracciatella mixture. This can be a fun and rewarding project for cheese enthusiasts, but it may not be the best option for beginners.
If you are not feeling up to the challenge of making burrata cheese at home, you can also buy it from a store. Many specialty cheese shops and Italian markets carry burrata cheese, and it is also becoming increasingly available in mainstream supermarkets. When buying burrata, look for a high-quality cheese that is made with fresh ingredients and has a creamy, delicately flavored filling. You can serve the burrata cheese as is, or use it as an ingredient in a variety of recipes, such as pasta dishes, salads, and appetizers. Whether you make it at home or buy it from a store, burrata cheese is sure to be a hit with your friends and family.
How do I store and handle burrata cheese to keep it fresh?
To keep burrata cheese fresh, it is important to store it properly and handle it with care. The cheese should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of around 40°F (4°C), and it should be kept away from strong-smelling foods, as it can absorb odors easily. The burrata cheese should also be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out, and it should be consumed within a few days of opening. When handling the cheese, be gentle, as the mozzarella exterior can be fragile and prone to tearing.
In addition to storing the cheese properly, it is also important to handle it with care when serving. The burrata cheese should be sliced or torn just before serving, as cutting it too far in advance can cause the filling to spill out and the cheese to become messy. To serve the cheese, simply slice or tear it open and let the creamy filling spill out. You can serve the burrata cheese with a variety of accompaniments, such as bread, crackers, or vegetables, and it is also delicious served as part of a cheese plate or antipasto platter. By storing and handling the cheese with care, you can enjoy fresh and delicious burrata cheese for several days.
Is burrata cheese a type of mozzarella, or is it a distinct type of cheese?
While burrata cheese has a mozzarella exterior, it is considered to be a distinct type of cheese. The mozzarella exterior is just one component of the cheese, and the creamy stracciatella filling is what sets it apart from other types of mozzarella. Burrata cheese has its own unique flavor and texture, which is different from mozzarella and other types of cheese. The cheese is also made using a special process that involves filling the mozzarella exterior with the stracciatella mixture, which gives it a unique character and identity.
In terms of its classification, burrata cheese is often referred to as a type of “stuffed” cheese, due to its unique filling. It is also sometimes classified as a type of “composite” cheese, due to its combination of different ingredients and textures. While it is related to mozzarella and shares some similarities with it, burrata cheese is a distinct and unique type of cheese that is worth trying in its own right. Whether you are a cheese enthusiast or just looking to try something new, burrata cheese is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Can I use burrata cheese in cooking, or is it best served fresh?
While burrata cheese is often served fresh, it can also be used in a variety of cooked dishes. The cheese has a high melting point, which makes it perfect for cooking, and its creamy filling adds a rich and indulgent texture to sauces and other dishes. Some popular ways to use burrata cheese in cooking include adding it to pasta sauces, using it as a topping for pizzas and breads, and incorporating it into risottos and other creamy dishes. The cheese can also be grilled or baked, which gives it a melted and creamy texture that is perfect for dipping bread or vegetables.
When using burrata cheese in cooking, it is best to add it towards the end of the cooking time, as it can melt and become too creamy if it is heated for too long. You can also use the cheese as a finishing touch for dishes, adding it just before serving to give the dish a burst of creamy flavor and texture. Some other ideas for using burrata cheese in cooking include adding it to soups, using it as a filling for stuffed vegetables, and incorporating it into omelets and other egg dishes. Whether you serve it fresh or use it in cooking, burrata cheese is sure to add a delicious and creamy touch to any meal.
Is burrata cheese a healthy option, or is it high in calories and fat?
While burrata cheese can be a healthy option in moderation, it is high in calories and fat. The cheese is made from a combination of mozzarella, cream, and stracciatella, which gives it a rich and creamy texture, but also makes it high in saturated fat and calories. A single serving of burrata cheese can range from 200 to 400 calories, depending on the size and ingredients, and it is also high in sodium and cholesterol. However, the cheese is also a good source of protein, calcium, and other nutrients, making it a nutritious option when consumed in moderation.
To enjoy burrata cheese as part of a healthy diet, it is best to consume it in small portions and balance it with other nutrient-dense foods. You can also look for lower-fat or lower-calorie versions of the cheese, which can be made with reduced-fat cream or other ingredients. Additionally, you can pair the cheese with healthy accompaniments, such as fresh vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, to create a balanced and nutritious meal. By enjoying burrata cheese in moderation and as part of a healthy diet, you can indulge in its creamy texture and delicious flavor while also maintaining a healthy lifestyle.