Burrata
Burrata is a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream, originating from Puglia in southern Italy. Its name derives from the Italian word 'burro' (butter), reflecting its rich, creamy interior that contrasts with a delicate outer shell of fresh mozzarella. This artisanal cheese represents a pinnacle of fresh cheese craftsmanship and has become increasingly popular in contemporary cuisine worldwide. Known for its luxurious texture and subtle, milky flavor, burrata is best enjoyed fresh and at room temperature to fully appreciate its complex characteristics.
Flavor Profile
Luxurious, buttery interior with decadent mouthfeel from the cream and stringy mozzarella filling
Subtle sweet undertone from fresh milk and gentle fermentation, not sharp or tangy
Light lactic acid note that provides freshness without overwhelming the palate
Clean, pastoral smell reminiscent of fresh milk and gentle cultured dairy products
Seasonality
Late spring through early fall (May-September)
Year-round with imports, though quality varies seasonally
Best Months
Culinary Uses
Available Forms
Key Techniques
- Serving at room temperature
- Drizzling with quality olive oil
- Pairing with seasonal vegetables
- Plating for presentation
- No cooking required - consumed raw
Classic Dishes
Flavor Pairings
Perfect Pairings
Creamy, delicate cheeses balance prosciutto's intensity while their richness highlights the meat's subtle sweetness
Acidity cuts through creaminess; subtle wine flavors don't compete with delicate cheese
Creamy richness balances cantaloupe's light, aqueous character in modern preparations
The acidity and sweetness of ripe tomatoes balance the creamy richness of burrata perfectly
Aromatic herbs brighten the mild, buttery flavor of burrata while adding aromatic complexity
Good Pairings
Mild nuttiness adds textural element without overwhelming delicate cheese
Bright citrus acidity enhances freshness without overpowering
Creamy texture contrasts with bread's crispness; sourness provides flavor counterpoint to cheese's richness
Sweet fruit provides refreshing contrast to savory creaminess
Sweet fruit provides refreshing contrast to savory creaminess
Storage & Handling
Method
Refrigerate in original packaging or in a container with the cream liquor from the cheese; keep at 4-6°C (39-43°F)
Duration
3-5 days from purchase; consume within 1-2 days of opening
Pro Tips
- Do not freeze burrata as freezing damages the delicate texture irreparably
- Store away from strong-smelling foods as the cheese absorbs odors easily
- Keep in the coldest part of the refrigerator, ideally the back of a cheese drawer
- Remove from refrigeration 15-20 minutes before serving for optimal flavor development
- If the creamy center separates, the cheese is still fine but should be consumed immediately
Origin & Heritage
History
Burrata was invented in the 1950s in the Andria region of Puglia as a way to utilize mozzarella scraps and cream, creating an innovative product that would preserve both ingredients. The cheese gained protected status designation DOP (Denominazione di Origine Protetta) in 2005, ensuring authenticity when labeled as Burrata di Andria. From its humble origins as a waste-reduction innovation, burrata has evolved into a sought-after luxury cheese served in fine dining establishments across Europe, North America, and beyond.
Cultural Significance
In Italian cuisine, particularly in Puglia, burrata represents regional pride and artisanal cheese-making tradition. The cheese embodies the Italian philosophy of transforming simple ingredients through skilled craftsmanship into something extraordinary and luxurious. Burrata has become a symbol of modern Italian gastronomy, bridging traditional methods with contemporary culinary presentation and global appeal.
The Science
Understanding the key chemical compounds helps explain why burrata pairs well with certain ingredients.
Provides the characteristic buttery aroma and rich mouthfeel; the compound that inspired the cheese's name ('burro' meaning butter in Italian)
Contributes subtle sweetness to the creamy filling, creating the mild dairy flavor profile
Generated during cheese production, provides delicate tang and acidic complexity that enhances freshness
Forms the delicate mozzarella shell and creates the stretchy, creamy texture when combined with fat
Dispersed throughout the cheese creating the luxurious, melting sensation on the palate and rich mouthfeel
Quick Tips
TL;DR for Burrata
Best For
Burrata with Heirloom Tomatoes and Basil, Burrata Salad with Arugula and Prosciutto
Top Pairing
Prosciutto Aged
Pro Tip
Serving at room temperature
Storage
3-5 days from purchase; consume within 1-2 days of opening fresh · N/A frozen
Nutrition
Per 100g
Health Benefits
- Excellent source of protein for muscle maintenance and repair
- Rich in calcium and phosphorus for bone health and strength
- Contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) with potential anti-inflammatory properties
- Good source of selenium, supporting immune function and antioxidant defense
Buying Guide
Price Range: $$$
Look For
- Creamy white color with no yellowing or discoloration on the outer mozzarella shell
- Taut, smooth outer surface with no cracks, leaks, or separated whey
- Packaged with clear liquid (the cream liquor) surrounding the cheese, indicating freshness and proper preservation
- Production date clearly marked; purchase within 3-5 days of production for optimal quality
Avoid
- Yellowing, browning, or discoloration on the surface indicating oxidation or age
- Leaking whey or separated liquid indicating improper handling or storage
- Hard, rubbery exterior suggesting the cheese has been frozen or improperly stored
- Sour, ammonia-like, or unpleasant odors indicating bacterial overgrowth or spoilage
Where to Find
- Specialty cheese shops and artisanal cheese counters, Italian delis and specialty food markets, High-end supermarkets and gourmet sections of mainstream grocers, Farmers markets (particularly in warm months when local producers may offer fresh batches), Online specialty food retailers with next-day cold shipping, Direct from Italian importers or farmstead cheese makers
Did You Know?
- 1.The name 'burrata' comes from the Italian word 'burro' meaning butter, referencing both the rich, buttery interior and the original use of leftover butter in early recipes
- 2.Burrata was invented in the 1950s as an innovative solution to use excess mozzarella curds and cream from production, transforming waste into a luxury product
- 3.True Burrata di Andria holds Protected Designation of Origin (DOP) status, meaning authentic versions can only be made in specific areas of Puglia using traditional methods and local milk
- 4.The delicate creamy center is made from stracciatella (thin strands of fresh mozzarella) combined with heavy cream, creating a completely different texture within the same cheese
- 5.Burrata was virtually unknown outside of southern Italy until the 2000s, when Italian culinary trends brought the cheese to international prominence
Plating Guidance
Explore all techniques →Vessel
Temperature-appropriate plates - chilled for cold dairy
Color Palette
White and cream tones, contrast with colorful accompaniments
Arrangements
Garnish Ideas