Cheese, a beloved and widely popular food worldwide, offers a wide range of flavors and high nutritional value. Among the many types of cheese, Burrata stands out as a culinary gem of Italy, with its soft mozzarella shell encasing a creamy stracciatella center. Do you know how to enjoy Burrata properly to fully appreciate its fantastic flavor? Discover expert culinary tips in this article.
What is Burrata Cheese? Where Does It Originate?
Burrata, meaning “buttery” in Italian, is a fresh cheese originating from the Puglia region in southern Italy. This cheese was created around the 1950s when a cheese maker named Lorenzo Bianchino devised a way to use leftover mozzarella strips by mixing them with fresh cream and wrapping them in a thin layer of mozzarella.
Burrata resembles mozzarella but, when cut open, reveals a smooth, creamy interior that flows out, offering a unique and enticing culinary experience. The flavor of Burrata is a harmonious blend of creamy richness, subtle milk sweetness, and the refined saltiness of mozzarella.
Burrata has a round, ivory shape like a pearl
Guide to Properly Enjoying Burrata Cheese
To fully savor Burrata, consider the following tips:
1. Choose Fresh and Delicious Burrata
- Check the production date: Burrata is best enjoyed fresh. Select Burrata with the most recent production date.
- Observe the shape: Fresh Burrata should be round, with a bright white exterior, and should not be dry or cracked.
- Test elasticity: When gently pressed, Burrata should exhibit a certain elasticity, neither too soft nor too hard.
2. Preparation Before Consumption
- Allow Burrata to reach room temperature: Remove Burrata from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before eating to release its full flavor.
- Avoid cutting too soon: Only cut Burrata just before eating to prevent the creamy center from spilling out excessively and losing its freshness.
3. How to Enjoy Burrata
-
Enjoy it plain: Cut the Burrata in half and savor the creamy, fresh milk flavor that melts in your mouth.
-
Pair with other ingredients: Burrata is versatile and can be paired with many dishes to enhance flavors. Here are a few suggestions:
- Salad: Combine Burrata with cherry tomatoes, arugula, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar for a fresh and colorful salad.
- Toast: Spread Burrata on toast, add a slice of prosciutto, tomatoes, and basil for a simple yet delicious appetizer.
- Pasta: Add Burrata to pasta dishes like spaghetti, ravioli, or gnocchi to increase creaminess and flavor.
- Pizza: Use Burrata as a pizza topping for a luxurious and appealing dish.
-
Pair with wine: Burrata pairs well with light white wines such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
4. Important Notes
- Do not cook Burrata: High temperatures will ruin the fresh flavor and distinctive texture of Burrata.
- Store Burrata properly: Burrata should be refrigerated and consumed within 2-3 days of purchase.
Creating Dishes with Burrata Cheese
Burrata is not just a simple dish; it is an endless source of inspiration for culinary enthusiasts. You can freely create and transform Burrata into many unique and enticing dishes.
- Burrata with pesto sauce and roasted pine nuts: The fresh flavor of pesto combined with the rich creaminess of Burrata and the crunch of roasted pine nuts creates a memorable culinary experience.
- Burrata with figs and honey: The natural sweetness of figs, the richness of Burrata, and the mild fragrance of honey will satisfy even the most discerning diners.
- Crispy Fried Burrata: A unique and fun twist, crispy fried Burrata has a crunchy outer layer and a soft, melting cream center.
Mozzarella cheese is a popular ingredient in Italian cuisine
Where to Buy Burrata Cheese in Vietnam?
Nowadays, Burrata has become more popular in Vietnam, and you can easily find this cheese at major supermarkets, imported food stores, or online retail websites.
When buying Burrata, pay attention to its origin and ensure the product includes full information about the manufacturer, ingredients, and expiration date.
Conclusion
Burrata cheese is a sophisticated and unique dish that offers a wonderful culinary experience for those who love the fresh, creamy taste. With the detailed guide above, we hope you can enjoy Burrata properly and explore many interesting variations with this cheese. Try it now and share your experiences with everyone!