Burrata is a fresh cheese from Puglia, a region in southern Italy. It has a unique outer shell made of mozzarella.
Its interior is filled with stracciatella, a mixture of thick cream and soft cheese pieces. When cut into, the savory, buttery filling oozes out.
This article will discuss the definition, origins, production process, and ways to enjoy burrata.
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What Is Burrata?
Burrata is a fresh Italian cheese made using the pasta filata technique. In this technique, the cheese curd is pulled and stretched until it becomes chewy.
The Origins of Burrata
Burrata cheese originates from Andria in the Puglia region of southern Italy. Its story began when a severe snowstorm hit the region, disrupting the delivery of dairy products.
To prevent the cream from spoiling, a cheesemaker wrapped it in a layer of mozzarella. This experiment resulted in the world’s first burrata.
Since 2016, Burrata from Andria has officially held Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status. This legal status protects the cheese's authenticity and traditional production methods.
The Meaning of the Name "Burrata"
In Italian, the word "burrata" is derived from "burro", meaning butter. It was chosen to describe the filling's rich, soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
However, this cheese does not use any butter in its production, despite its name.
How Burrata Is Made
Burrata is made from cow's milk. There are also versions made with buffalo milk. The production process is divided into two parts: the shell and the filling.
1. Making the Outer Shell
The process starts by heating the milk. Then, rennet is added to form curds. The curds are then pulled and stretched into mozzarella.
Then, the mozzarella is shaped into small pouches with a twist at the top.
2. Stracciatella as the Filling
Some of the curd is shredded by hand. The soft curd is mixed with fresh cream to make stracciatella. This mixture is stuffed into the mozzarella pouch.
The pouch is then quickly sealed by hand to retain the filling. The result is a smooth, white cheese with no hard rind.
What Burrata Cheese Tastes Like
Burrata has a savory, buttery flavor. It has a smooth texture that melts in your mouth. The outer layer is slightly chewy because it's made with mozzarella. The inside is much softer and creamier.
That's why every bite has two different textures.
How to Eat Burrata
Burrata is best enjoyed when served fresh at room temperature. So, take the cheese out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the interior to soften and the savory flavor to fully develop.
Burrata is also great with prosciutto or other types of cured meats. The cheese is creamy and melts in your mouth, and the meat is savory and salty, which together taste perfect.
Here are the best ways to serve burrata.
• As an appetizer made with fresh tomatoes, basil leaves, and extra virgin olive oil.
• You can add it to a salad, mix it with fresh fruit, or serve it with seasonal vegetables.
• Top your pasta with it for a soft, creamy texture.
• When making a pizza, add this ingredient after cooking to keep it creamy.
• Toast the bread, then drizzle olive oil and a pinch of salt on it.
The Difference Between Burrata and Mozzarella
Mozzarella has a firmer, more elastic texture, with a fresh, slightly tangy flavor. On the other hand, burrata is much softer and creamier, with a richer flavor. The mozzarella shell is easy to eat, but the stracciatella filling inside makes the burrata even more delicious when you cut it.
How to Store Burrata
Burrata is best enjoyed right after it's made. But if you have leftovers or buy more than you need, put them in the refrigerator right away.
Also, eat it within 1 to 2 days to enjoy the best quality and flavor. If you store burrata for a long time, its soft texture will harden.
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Order Some Fresh, Italian-Style Burrata at Roma Osteria & Bar!
Now you know the basics of burrata, from its history to how to store it.
If you want to try burrata, visit Roma Osteria & Bar. The restaurant offers a variety of traditional Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients, such as pizza, handmade pasta, and burrata.
Make your dining experience even better by enjoying a selection of premium Italian wines and cocktails.
The atmosphere is warm, lively, and relaxed, but it also has a touch of Italian elegance. Roma Osteria & Bar is located in Pondok Indah Mall 3 and Sequis Tower.
Reservations:
• Roma Osteria & Bar Pondok Indah Mall 3
• Roma Osteria & Bar Sequis Tower
