Italy, a country renowned for its rich culinary traditions, offers a plethora of cheeses that have captured the hearts and palates of food lovers around the world. Among these, burrata stands out as a unique and luxurious creation, often celebrated for its creamy, delicate texture and sumptuous taste. At the heart of this delightful cheese lies its most enchanting secret: stracciatella. This article delves into the fascinating world of burrata and its stracciatella filling, exploring its history, production, and culinary uses.
Find out more about burrata and our different Italian products in our Italian Market in Miami.
The origin of Burrata
Burrata, which means "buttered" in Italian, originated in the Apulia region of Southern Italy in the early 20th century. The cheese was invented out of necessity and resourcefulness by cheese makers who sought to use leftover scraps of mozzarella curd. They ingeniously combined these scraps with fresh cream and encased them in a pouch of mozzarella, creating a cheese that not only prevented waste but also introduced a new level of decadence to the Italian cheese repertoire.
The name burrata reflects its buttery consistency, but it’s the unique process of making it that sets it apart. Traditional burrata is still crafted by hand in small dairies throughout Apulia, ensuring that each piece carries the authentic taste and texture that has been cherished for generations.
Understanding Stracciatella
At the core of burrata lies stracciatella, a heavenly mixture that is as intriguing as it is delicious. The term stracciatella comes from the Italian word “straccia,” meaning “rags” or “shreds,” aptly describing the appearance of the cheese’s interior. Stracciatella is made by shredding fresh mozzarella curd into thin strips and then blending it with fresh cream. This combination creates a texture that is both creamy and slightly stringy, providing a delightful contrast to the smooth outer shell of the burrata.
The Art of Making Burrata
The production of burrata is a meticulous process that requires skill and patience. Here’s a step-by-step look at how this beloved cheese is crafted:
Milk Selection: The process begins with the selection of high-quality cow’s milk, which is then heated and mixed with rennet to form curds.
Curd Formation: Once the curds have formed, they are cut into small pieces and heated again to encourage the release of whey. The curds are then drained and left to rest.
Stretching the Mozzarella: After resting, the curds are kneaded and stretched in hot water to form a smooth, elastic dough. This process, known as “pasta filata,” is crucial for developing the characteristic texture of mozzarella.
Creating the Shell: A portion of the stretched mozzarella is flattened and formed into small pouches. These pouches will eventually hold the stracciatella filling.
Making the Stracciatella: The remaining mozzarella curds are shredded into thin strips and mixed with fresh cream to create the stracciatella.
Filling the Burrata: The stracciatella mixture is carefully spooned into the mozzarella pouches, which are then sealed by twisting the top. The burrata is typically placed in cold water to help it set and retain its shape.
Packaging: Finally, the burrata is packaged and stored in a brine solution to keep it fresh until it is ready to be enjoyed.
The Taste and Texture of Burrata
Burrata is celebrated for its unique texture and rich flavor. The outer shell is firm and smooth, providing a satisfying contrast to the creamy, luscious filling. When cut open, the stracciatella oozes out, revealing its luxurious, velvety consistency. The taste is mildly sweet with a delicate hint of milkiness, making it a versatile cheese that pairs well with a variety of dishes.
Culinary Uses of Burrata
Burrata’s versatility makes it a prized ingredient in many culinary creations. Here are some popular ways to enjoy this delightful cheese:
Classic Caprese Salad: A traditional Caprese salad with a twist, burrata replaces mozzarella, adding a creamy element to the mix of fresh tomatoes, basil, and olive oil. The result is a salad that is both refreshing and indulgent.
Pasta Dishes: Burrata can elevate simple pasta dishes to new heights. It can be added to warm pasta just before serving, allowing the heat to gently melt the cheese and create a luscious, creamy sauce.
Pizza Topping: A pizza topped with burrata is a true delicacy. The cheese is typically added after the pizza has been baked, allowing it to melt slightly and provide a rich, creamy contrast to the crispy crust and tangy tomato sauce.
Appetizers and Antipasti: Burrata can be served on its own as a simple yet elegant appetizer. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, olive oil, and a sprinkle of sea salt. It can also be included in an antipasti platter alongside cured meats, olives, and marinated vegetables.
Gourmet Sandwiches: Burrata can transform a regular sandwich into a gourmet delight. It pairs wonderfully with fresh vegetables, pesto, and artisanal breads, adding a creamy texture and rich flavor.
Desserts: While burrata is primarily used in savory dishes, it can also be incorporated into desserts. It pairs well with fresh fruits, honey, and balsamic reduction, offering a unique and luxurious twist to traditional sweet dishes.
Health Benefits of Burrata
While burrata is undoubtedly indulgent, it also offers some nutritional benefits. It is a good source of protein and calcium, which are essential for maintaining strong bones and muscles. The cheese also contains beneficial probiotics from the fermentation process, which can aid in digestion. However, due to its high fat content, burrata should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Pairing Burrata with Wine
The rich, creamy texture and mild flavor of burrata make it an excellent cheese to pair with wine. Here are some wine pairing suggestions that complement the unique characteristics of burrata:
White Wines: Light and crisp white wines, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complement the creamy texture of burrata without overpowering its delicate flavor.
Sparkling Wines: The effervescence of sparkling wines like Prosecco or Champagne can provide a delightful contrast to the richness of burrata, creating a balanced and refreshing pairing.
Rosé Wines: Dry rosé wines, with their light fruitiness and crisp acidity, can enhance the mild sweetness of burrata and provide a harmonious match.
Red Wines: For a more robust pairing, light-bodied red wines such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais can complement the cheese without overwhelming its delicate flavor.
Preserving and Serving Burrata
Burrata is best enjoyed fresh, ideally on the day it is made. However, it can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days if necessary. To preserve its freshness, burrata should be kept in its brine solution or in an airtight container. Before serving, it is recommended to let the cheese come to room temperature to fully appreciate its creamy texture and rich flavor.
When serving burrata, it is often presented whole, allowing diners to cut into the cheese and experience the delightful oozing of the stracciatella filling. It can be garnished with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, a sprinkle of sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper to enhance its flavor.
The Cultural Significance of Burrata
Burrata is more than just a cheese; it is a symbol of Italian culinary tradition and craftsmanship. Its creation reflects the resourcefulness and creativity of Italian cheese makers, who transformed simple ingredients into a luxurious delicacy. The cheese has become a beloved part of Italian cuisine, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
In recent years, burrata has gained international popularity, appearing on menus in fine dining restaurants and gourmet markets around the world. Despite its global reach, the cheese remains deeply rooted in its Italian heritage, with many producers adhering to traditional methods to ensure its authenticity.
Conclusion
Burrata, with its creamy stracciatella filling, is a testament to the artistry and passion of Italian cheese makers. From its humble origins in Apulia to its status as a global culinary delicacy, burrata continues to captivate and delight food lovers with its unique texture and rich flavor. Whether enjoyed on its own or incorporated into a variety of dishes, burrata offers a taste of Italian tradition and a celebration of the simple yet exquisite pleasures of life. As we savor each creamy bite, we are reminded of the beauty and craftsmanship that go into creating this beloved cheese.
Feel Free to visit our Italian Market in Miami or browse our website!
