Burrata cheese is an Italian delicacy that has captivated food lovers across the globe. It’s a soft cheese made from mozzarella and cream, featuring a delicate outer shell and a rich, creamy interior. If you’ve ever tasted burrata, you know just how special this cheese is. But what if you could make it at home? This guide will walk you through how to prepare burrata cheese from scratch, with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions. Additionally, we’ll cover how to serve it, the best pairings, and common FAQs.
What is Burrata Cheese?
Burrata originates from Puglia, Italy, and was initially created to use up scraps of mozzarella. The word “burrata” comes from the Italian word burro, meaning butter, which refers to its buttery, rich filling. At first glance, burrata looks like a ball of fresh mozzarella, but once you cut into it, the creamy center oozes out, revealing a luscious mixture of stracciatella and cream.
The outer shell of burrata is essentially mozzarella, while the inside is a mixture of fresh curd shreds and cream. This gives burrata its signature texture, balancing the firm chewiness of the outer shell with the creamy, soft filling.
Burrata is often enjoyed as a fresh appetizer, but it can also be a fantastic addition to more elaborate dishes like salads and pizzas. Its versatility makes it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike.
Ingredients and Tools for Making Burrata
Before you start, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients and tools for making burrata. If this is your first time making cheese at home, don’t worry – the process is simpler than you might think.
Ingredients:
- Fresh mozzarella curd
- Heavy cream (preferably non-ultra-pasteurized)
- Salt
- Water (for heating the curd and stretching the mozzarella)
- Rennet (available at cheesemaking stores or online)
Tools:
- A cheese thermometer
- Cheesecloth
- Large mixing bowl
- Slotted spoon
- Clean kitchen towel
- Knife or curd cutter
- Large pot for heating water
If you’re unsure where to find some of these ingredients, especially fresh mozzarella curd or rennet, many specialty cheesemaking stores or online retailers carry them. You can also refer to this burrata cheese recipe guide for an in-depth resource.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Prepare Burrata Cheese
Follow this detailed guide to make fresh burrata at home. The process requires patience and practice, but the results are well worth the effort.
1. Heat and Acidify the Milk
Begin by heating the fresh mozzarella curd in a large pot to approximately 90°F (32°C). Be sure to stir gently to avoid breaking the curds prematurely. Add a teaspoon of salt to enhance the flavor of the curd.
2. Add Rennet to Form Curd
Once the curd reaches the desired temperature, add a few drops of rennet to coagulate the milk. Let the mixture sit undisturbed for about 10-15 minutes until the curds have fully formed. This step is crucial, as the rennet helps transform the milk into solid curds and liquid whey.
3. Cut and Drain the Curds
Use a knife to slice the curd into small cubes, about ½ inch in size. This process helps the curds release more whey. Let the curds sit for a few more minutes, then use a slotted spoon to drain the whey. Save the whey for future cheesemaking or discard it.
4. Heat and Stretch the Curds
Next, heat the curd mass to 170°F (77°C). Carefully stretch the curd into long strands, similar to string cheese. This is the same technique used to make mozzarella. Stretching the curd gives the burrata its smooth, chewy outer layer.
5. Prepare the Stracciatella Filling
The creamy inside of burrata is made from a mixture of leftover curds and fresh cream, known as stracciatella. To prepare this, combine torn curds with heavy cream and a pinch of salt. Mix gently until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
6. Shape the Burrata
To assemble the burrata, take a portion of the stretched mozzarella and flatten it into a small disc. Place a spoonful of the stracciatella filling in the center, then gather the edges of the mozzarella to enclose the filling. Pinch the top to seal the burrata ball.
Repeat the process until all the curd and filling are used. Place the burrata balls in a bowl of lightly salted water to keep them fresh while you prepare the rest.
For more detailed steps on serving burrata cheese, check out this guide to serving burrata that offers expert tips for making the most of this cheese.
How to Serve Burrata Cheese
Once you’ve made your homemade burrata, it’s time to serve it. Burrata’s creamy, delicate texture makes it an excellent addition to many dishes. Here’s how to serve it to impress your guests.
Serve at Room Temperature
For the best flavor and texture, always serve burrata at room temperature. Cold burrata can feel overly firm, preventing the creamy center from flowing out when cut. Take it out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before serving to allow it to warm slightly.
Simple Seasonings
Burrata is best when paired with simple ingredients that complement its creamy, fresh taste. Consider the following:
- Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle sea salt
- Add a few cracks of black pepper
- Serve with fresh basil or mint leaves
Add to Salads or Bread
Burrata pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables and herbs. Serve it atop a simple green salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and a balsamic glaze. You can also serve burrata on toasted bread or crostini for an easy appetizer.
Pair with Roasted Vegetables
Burrata’s creamy interior complements the flavors of roasted vegetables such as tomatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini. Simply roast your vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then serve alongside burrata for a stunning and flavorful dish.
Burrata Recipe Ideas
Now that you’ve made your burrata, here are a few delicious ways to use it in everyday meals. These recipes highlight the cheese’s versatility and creamy texture.
1. Burrata with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Ingredients:
- 1 ball of burrata
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Fresh basil
Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and balsamic vinegar.
- Roast for 15-20 minutes until tomatoes blister.
- Serve the roasted tomatoes alongside burrata, drizzling with more olive oil and garnishing with fresh basil.
2. Burrata on Pizza
Ingredients:
- Fresh pizza dough
- Tomato sauce
- Burrata
- Fresh basil
- Olive oil
Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough and spread a thin layer of tomato sauce.
- Bake the pizza for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden.
- Once out of the oven, place the burrata ball in the center of the pizza and tear it open. Garnish with fresh basil and olive oil.
Best Pairings for Burrata Cheese
Burrata pairs exceptionally well with a variety of foods, making it versatile for different occasions. Here are some ideas on how to elevate your burrata dishes.
Vegetables:
- Grilled or roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and asparagus complement burrata’s creamy texture.
- Fresh tomatoes are a classic pairing. Their acidity balances the richness of the cheese.
Fruits:
- Fresh or grilled peaches, figs, and strawberries provide a sweet contrast to burrata’s savory qualities.
- Try pairing burrata with roasted pears for a fall-inspired dish.
Cured Meats:
- Serve burrata alongside prosciutto, speck, or salami. The salty cured meats contrast beautifully with the cheese’s creaminess.
- For a twist, try it with smoked salmon or anchovies for a more pronounced flavor.
Bread and Crackers:
- Sourdough bread, toasted crostini, or artisanal crackers make the perfect vehicle for enjoying burrata. The crunch of the bread contrasts with the soft, creamy cheese.
Storing Burrata Cheese
Because burrata is a fresh cheese, proper storage is key to preserving its texture and flavor.
Short-Term Storage
If you’re planning to consume your burrata within a day or two, store it in the refrigerator in its original liquid. Burrata should be consumed as fresh as possible, ideally within 24-48 hours.
Can You Freeze Burrata?
Freezing burrata is not recommended as it affects the texture of both the outer shell and the creamy center. If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator and try to use them within a few days. However, fresh burrata is always best enjoyed the day it’s made or bought.
FAQs About Burrata Cheese
Here are answers to some common questions about burrata.
How long does burrata last?
Burrata should be eaten within 24-48 hours for the best taste and texture. If stored in the refrigerator, it can last up to five days, but its quality diminishes quickly after that.
Can you make burrata with non-dairy milk?
While traditional burrata is made with cow’s milk, some experimental recipes use non-dairy alternatives. However, these may not replicate the same texture and creaminess as traditional burrata.
What’s the difference between burrata and mozzarella?
Burrata contains mozzarella as its outer shell, but the inside is filled with stracciatella and cream, making it softer and richer than mozzarella alone.
Can burrata be cooked or melted?
Burrata is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be used as a finishing touch on hot dishes like pizza or pasta, where its creamy center can melt slightly for a luxurious texture.
Conclusion
Burrata cheese is a wonderful, versatile cheese that can be easily made at home with just a few ingredients and some patience. From its delicate outer shell to its rich, creamy center, burrata is a true crowd-pleaser that works well in a variety of dishes. Whether you’re adding it to a simple salad, topping a pizza, or serving it alongside roasted vegetables, burrata is sure to impress your guests.
With the tips and techniques outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to make burrata from scratch and serve it with confidence. Enjoy the process and savor the incredible flavors of this Italian masterpiece.