What is Burrata? The Creamy Heart of Italian Gastronomy

Burrata, the crowning jewel of Italian gastronomy, is a cheese connoisseur’s dream. This delicacy hails from the sun-kissed region of Puglia, Italy, and it’s been tantalizing palates since the early 20th century. Burrata is an exquisite blend of textures and flavors—a delicate outer shell of fresh mozzarella encases a creamy core of stracciatella and cream. Its name, derived from the Italian word ‘burro’, meaning butter, hints at its rich, buttery heart that makes every bite an indulgent experience. It’s more than just cheese—it’s a culinary masterpiece that showcases the artistry and passion ingrained in Italian food culture.

Quick Facts About Burrata

Country of Origin	Italy
Region	Puglia
Age	1 to 2 days
Classification	Fresh, Soft
Milk	Cow
Producer	Various
Weight and Shape	250 to 500 g (90 oz – 1 lb 2 oz), Sphere
Size	Various
Taste	Mild butter sweetness, milky taste
Aroma	Buttery aroma
Pairing	Primitivo di Manduria, Moscato di Trani, crusty bread
Texture	Smooth on the outside, soft on the inside
Color	Lustrous white in color

What is Burrata?

Burrata, an Italian gem in the world of gastronomy, is a delicacy that perfectly embodies the art of cheese-making. A soft cow’s milk cheese formed into a plump, round ball, Burrata’s allure lies not just in its smooth outer shell of mozzarella, but also in the rich treasure hidden within – a lush blend of fresh curd and cream.

The name ‘Burrata’ translates from Italian to mean ‘buttered’, hinting at its creamy, rich flavor. Much like its cousin, fresh mozzarella, Burrata presents itself as a plump white orb. But cut into it, and you’ll find a contrasting texture that sets it apart. The outer casing is solid cheese, while the inside reveals a soothing landscape of stringy curd and thick cream.

Originating from Puglia, Italy, Burrata has a very short shelf life compared to other cheeses, which makes enjoying it fresh an integral part of the experience. Whether you’re spreading it on a slice of crusty bread or pairing it with ripe tomatoes for a classic Caprese salad, Burrata adds a touch of luxury to any dish it graces.

So next time you come across this unique cheese, remember that you’re not just tasting a product, but an age-old Italian tradition of craft and culinary excellence.

Burrata Tasting Notes

Texture: Burrata boasts an exciting contrast of textures. The exterior is a smooth, supple pouch made of mozzarella, while the interior is a creamy, velvety blend of fresh curd and cream.
Color: The cheese presents itself as a pristine, milky white orb, encapsulating the pure, unadulterated dairy product within.
Flavor Profile: Burrata offers a rich, buttery taste that’s subtly sweet and tangy. The outer shell tastes like fresh mozzarella, while the inside has a luscious, creamy flavor reminiscent of fresh milk and butter.
Aroma: Burrata has a faint, clean scent that’s slightly milky and lactic. It doesn’t have the strong smell common to aged cheeses.
Mouthfeel: Cutting into Burrata releases its soft, stringy curd and cream, offering a delightful creamy mouthfeel. The outer layer provides a tender, yielding bite, while the inside is luxuriously smooth and rich.
Pairings: Burrata pairs well with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of good-quality olive oil for a classic Caprese salad. It also complements fruits like peaches and figs, crusty bread, prosciutto, and a splash of balsamic vinegar. For wines, opt for light, crisp whites or sparkling wines.
Serving Suggestions: Burrata is best served at room temperature to fully appreciate its creamy texture and subtle flavors. It’s often presented in its own whey or brine to maintain freshness.
Shelf Life: Burrata has a short shelf life and is best consumed within 48 hours of purchase. This freshness is part of what gives Burrata its unique charm and appeal.

What Pairs Well With Burrata?

Food that goes well with Burrata:

Category	Foods that Pair Well with Burrata
Breads	Crusty Italian bread, Ciabatta, Baguette, Sourdough
Fruits	Tomatoes, Peaches, Figs, Berries, Melons
Vegetables	Arugula, Spinach, Grilled Zucchini, Roasted Bell Peppers
Meats	Prosciutto, Salami, Smoked Salmon, Grilled Chicken
Seafood	Shrimp, Lobster, Crab, Grilled Octopus
Condiments	Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Balsamic Vinegar, Pesto, Truffle Oil
Herbs and Spices	Basil, Thyme, Oregano, Black Pepper, Sea Salt
Nuts	Pine Nuts, Almonds, Walnuts, Pistachios
Grains	Quinoa, Farro, Couscous, Risotto
Pasta	Spaghetti, Linguine, Penne, Ravioli
Others	Pizza, Bruschetta, Caprese Salad, Gnocchi

Beverage that goes well with Burrata:

Category	Beverages that Pair Well with Burrata
White Wines	Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Vermentino
Red Wines	Chianti, Barbera, Sangiovese
Sparkling Wines	Prosecco, Champagne, Cava
Rosé Wines	Provence Rosé, Italian Rosato, Spanish Rosado
Beer	Pilsners, Wheat Beers, Light Lagers
Non-Alcoholic Drinks	Sparkling Water, Lemonade, Iced Tea