Burrata cheese is a luscious Italian cheese known for its delicate mozzarella outer shell and its creamy, rich filling made of stracciatella (a mixture of cheese and cream). Often served with fresh tomatoes, olive oil, and basil, burrata brings an elevated touch to any meal. Whether served in a simple salad, topping a pizza, or as a centerpiece for a charcuterie board, burrata’s flavor and texture make it a standout ingredient. But did you know that making burrata cheese at home is simpler than you might think?
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring that your homemade burrata turns out as creamy and indulgent as any you’d find in a fine Italian restaurant. Whether you’re a cheese aficionado or a kitchen novice, this step-by-step tutorial will make the process easy to follow.
Introduction to Burrata Cheese
Burrata originates from the Apulia region in southern Italy. Traditionally, burrata was made to utilize the leftover scraps of mozzarella. Cheesemakers would take those leftover pieces and mix them with cream, wrapping the mixture in a thin layer of freshly made mozzarella. The result? A cheese with a contrasting texture—firm on the outside, creamy and oozing on the inside.
Many people confuse burrata with mozzarella, but the two cheeses have distinct differences. While mozzarella is a solid ball of cheese, burrata has a soft, creamy center that makes it much richer and more decadent. This combination of textures is what sets burrata apart and gives it its unique appeal.
Learning how to make burrata at home not only allows you to control the quality of ingredients but also gives you a sense of satisfaction that comes with creating something from scratch. Plus, you can experiment with different flavors by infusing your burrata filling with herbs or spices.
If you’re curious about how burrata compares to other cheeses, you can also explore more ideas on how to incorporate cheeses into your meals, such as in this Twisted Hawaiian Pizza recipe.
Ingredients Needed to Make Burrata
Making burrata cheese requires only a few simple ingredients, but the quality of those ingredients will greatly impact your final result. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 gallon of fresh whole milk (avoid ultra-pasteurized milk for best results)
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon of liquid rennet (or 1 rennet tablet dissolved in water)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of citric acid
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- Filtered water for mixing
Optional Ingredients:
- Fresh herbs (such as basil or chives, for flavoring the burrata filling)
- Vegetarian rennet (for a vegetarian-friendly version)
The key to perfect burrata lies in using high-quality milk. If you have access to raw milk, it will produce the best results, as it retains the natural fats and proteins needed for cheesemaking. However, if raw milk is unavailable, organic or minimally processed milk will also work well.
For those who enjoy experimenting with cheese recipes, why not try pairing your burrata with other dishes like this Crock Pot Mac and Cheese to complement its creamy texture?
Tools and Equipment Needed:
To make burrata cheese, you don’t need any specialized equipment, but having the right tools on hand will make the process much easier. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- A large pot for heating the milk
- A cheese thermometer to monitor the temperature
- Cheesecloth or butter muslin for draining curds
- A slotted spoon for scooping curds
- A large bowl for mixing
- A sharp knife for cutting curds
- Clean towels for drying cheese
The cheese thermometer is perhaps the most important tool for this process, as getting the temperature right is crucial to forming the curds correctly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Burrata Cheese
Step 1: Preparing the Milk and Cream Mixture
- Pour 1 gallon of fresh whole milk into a large pot.
- Dissolve 1 1/2 teaspoons of citric acid in 1/4 cup of cool water, then stir the mixture into the milk.
- Gently heat the milk over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Use a cheese thermometer to monitor the temperature and heat the milk to 90°F (32°C).
The citric acid helps to acidify the milk, which is essential for the curds to form properly. Heating the milk slowly and stirring gently ensures even distribution of the acid and a smooth curd.
Step 2: Adding Rennet and Forming Curds
- Dissolve 1/4 teaspoon of liquid rennet (or a rennet tablet) in 1/4 cup of water, and gently stir it into the milk.
- Cover the pot and let it sit undisturbed for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the curds to form. You’ll know the curds are ready when they look like a thick custard and begin to pull away from the sides of the pot.
This stage is critical in determining the final texture of your cheese. The curds should be soft but hold their shape when cut.
Step 3: Cutting and Cooking the Curds
- Once the curds have set, use a long knife to cut them into 1/2-inch cubes. Be sure to cut all the way to the bottom of the pot.
- Slowly heat the curds and whey to 105°F (40°C), stirring gently to prevent the curds from breaking apart. Continue cooking for about 10-15 minutes until the curds firm up.
Cutting the curds allows them to release whey more efficiently, which helps create the proper texture for mozzarella. The slow heating process firms up the curds, making them easier to work with later.
Step 4: Draining the Curds
- Use a slotted spoon to carefully transfer the curds into a colander lined with cheesecloth.
- Allow the curds to drain for about 5 minutes, gently pressing to release any excess whey.
At this point, you have mozzarella curds, which could be shaped into fresh mozzarella balls. However, for burrata, we’ll take things a step further.
Step 5: Stretching the Mozzarella
This is where the fun part begins—stretching the mozzarella! Stretching gives mozzarella its signature texture and elasticity.
- Heat a pot of water to around 185°F (85°C). Place a handful of curds in the hot water and allow them to warm for a few seconds.
- Using a spoon or your hands (be careful, as the curds will be hot!), stretch the curds until they become smooth and elastic. Fold the curds over themselves and stretch again.
Stretching the curds by hand is a traditional technique and is what gives the mozzarella its distinct chewy texture. Repeat this process until all the curds are stretched and smooth.
Step 6: Making the Creamy Burrata Filling
The filling is what makes burrata so irresistible. The stracciatella filling is a combination of leftover mozzarella pieces and cream.
- Take any leftover mozzarella scraps and mix them with 1 cup of heavy cream and a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture until it has a smooth yet slightly chunky texture.
If you’d like, you can also add finely chopped herbs like basil or chives to the filling for extra flavor.
Step 7: Shaping and Storing Burrata
Now that you have both the mozzarella and the filling ready, it’s time to form the burrata balls.
- Take small portions of the stretched mozzarella and flatten them into a disk shape.
- Place a spoonful of the stracciatella filling in the center of the disk, then carefully fold the edges over the filling to form a ball. Pinch the edges together to seal the burrata.
Once the burrata balls are formed, they can be stored in salted water in the refrigerator. However, burrata is best enjoyed fresh, within 24-48 hours of making it.
If you’re interested in more ways to use burrata, why not serve it alongside this Pizza Twists Recipe for a gourmet twist on a classic dish?
How to Serve Burrata Cheese
Burrata’s creamy texture makes it a versatile addition to many dishes. Here are a few popular serving ideas:
- Burrata with Tomatoes and Basil: Drizzle fresh burrata with olive oil and pair it with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of salt for a simple yet delicious appetizer.
- Burrata on Pizza: Add burrata to a hot pizza right after it comes out of the oven for an extra creamy texture. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, prosciutto, or even a simple margherita pizza.
- Burrata with Grilled Vegetables: Pair burrata with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for a light and refreshing summer dish.
For more ideas on how to pair burrata with other creamy ingredients, you can explore this Boursin Cheese Pasta Recipe.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
Burrata cheese is high in protein and fat, making it a satisfying addition to any meal. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional content of a typical 100-gram serving of burrata:
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Protein: 15 grams
- Fat: 25 grams
- Calcium: 200 mg
- Carbohydrates: 2 grams
While burrata is rich and indulgent, it can also be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. It’s a great source of calcium and provides essential fats that can help support overall health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between mozzarella and burrata?
Burrata differs from mozzarella in that it has a soft, creamy center filled with stracciatella, whereas mozzarella is solid throughout. Burrata’s unique filling makes it richer and more decadent compared to mozzarella.
How long does burrata last?
Freshly made burrata should be consumed within 1-2 days for the best flavor and texture. It can be stored in lightly salted water in the refrigerator but is best enjoyed fresh.
Can you freeze burrata?
While it is technically possible to freeze burrata, doing so is not recommended as the texture of the creamy filling may become grainy after thawing.
Is burrata healthier than other cheeses?
Burrata is higher in fat than other cheeses due to its creamy filling, but it is still a good source of protein and calcium, making it a nutritious option when eaten in moderation.
Can you make burrata with store-bought mozzarella?
Yes, it is possible to make a quick version of burrata using store-bought mozzarella by filling it with a mixture of cream and cheese scraps. However, the flavor and texture won’t be as authentic as homemade burrata.
Conclusion
Making burrata cheese at home is a rewarding process that results in one of the most delicious, creamy cheeses you can enjoy. Whether you’re serving it with fresh vegetables, topping a pizza, or simply enjoying it with olive oil and bread, burrata adds a luxurious texture and flavor to any dish.
With this step-by-step guide, you now have all the tools and knowledge to create homemade burrata cheese. Get creative, experiment with flavors, and savor the rich, creamy taste of fresh burrata in your own kitchen.
For more cheesy inspirations, check out the recipes section on HNA Recipes, and don’t miss the delicious Cheesy Potatoes Recipe, which pairs beautifully with burrata cheese.