Exploring burrata: The new star in the culinary world

Mozzarella is an Italian cheese that was invented in ancient times. Due to its unique consistency and delicate taste, it quickly spread around the world. It’s a popular addition to pizzas, salads, and sandwiches. You can buy it in any store.

However, recently, there has been a lot of buzz about burrata. Although it looks very much like mozzarella, they are two completely different cheeses. How do they differ? Which one is tastier? Let me explain.

Mozzarella is a rennet cheese originating from southern Italy. It was invented in ancient times but only gained true popularity in the 3rd century. It was initially made from buffalo milk, but cow's milk is now most commonly used. The cheese is soft and very flexible. When heated, it becomes incredibly light and stretchy.

Burrata is a "cousin" of mozzarella, as it, too, is a rennet cheese made in Italy. It consists of two layers. The first layer is solidified mozzarella. When cut, cream and the so-called stracciatella, which resembles something between thick mascarpone and cream, ooze out from the interior.

Burrata is a relatively new invention, created in the 1950s entirely by accident. Cheese producers were wondering what to do with the unused scraps of mozzarella. One day, they decided to experiment. While dipping mozzarella in hot brine, they placed the leftover cheese scraps (stracciatella) inside and formed them into a pouch. After removing the cheese from the brine, they filled the centre of the cheese with cream.

This is how the first burrata was produced, quickly becoming famous in Italy and worldwide. Due to its unique consistency and creamy centre, the cheese is used in savoury dishes and desserts. Burrata pairs perfectly with vegetables, meat, or fruits. It’s one of the most popular additions in recent years, and it can be bought in stores or markets.