Burrata: Italy’s Creamy Jewel of Cheesemaking

Silky on the outside and luxuriously creamy within — Burrata is Italy’s most indulgent cheese creation.
Made from fresh mozzarella and filled with rich stracciatella and cream, Burrata delivers a taste and texture that feel almost magical.

Born in the heart of Puglia, this cheese represents the very best of Italian artistry: simple ingredients turned into something truly extraordinary.

🏞️ Origin and History

Burrata traces its roots to Andria, a small town in the region of Puglia in southern Italy.
It was created in the early 20th century by cheesemakers seeking a way to reuse leftover mozzarella curds and cream.

By encasing the creamy mixture inside a delicate mozzarella pouch, they crafted a cheese that was both inventive and irresistible.
What started as a farmer’s clever solution quickly became one of Italy’s most beloved delicacies — a symbol of freshness, craftsmanship, and indulgence.

🧂 Production and Characteristics

Burrata belongs to the pasta filata (stretched-curd) cheese family, like mozzarella, but with a luxurious twist.
It’s made from cow’s milk, and each ball is handcrafted for perfect texture and freshness.

Main characteristics:

Milk type: Cow’s milk
Origin: Puglia, Italy
Texture: Soft exterior, creamy and runny interior
Color: Pure white
Flavor: Milky, buttery, and delicate
Best enjoyed: Fresh, within 24–48 hours of production

Inside each pouch lies stracciatella — thin strands of mozzarella mixed with fresh cream — giving Burrata its signature creamy center.
When cut open, the inside spills out luxuriously, making it one of the most captivating cheeses to serve.

⏳ Freshness and Storage

Unlike aged cheeses, Burrata is best enjoyed fresh.
It’s typically made daily in artisanal dairies and sold within hours.

To preserve its delicate texture and flavor:

Keep refrigerated at 4°C (39°F)
Bring to room temperature before serving
Consume within 48 hours of purchase

Fresh Burrata should have a smooth shell and a velvety, creamy filling — the hallmark of true quality.

🍽️ Culinary Uses

Burrata is a showstopper cheese that shines in both simple and elegant dishes.
Its luscious center enhances everything it touches, from fresh salads to gourmet creations.

Popular uses include:

🍅 With tomatoes and basil: A modern twist on Caprese salad.
🍕 On pizza: Added after baking for a creamy finish.
🥖 On crostini or bruschetta: With olive oil and a touch of sea salt.
🥗 In salads: Paired with arugula, prosciutto, and balsamic glaze.
🍝 On pasta: Adds richness to light tomato or pesto sauces.

No matter how it’s served, Burrata turns every dish into a luxurious experience.

🍷 Perfect Pairings

Burrata’s soft, creamy flavor pairs best with fresh, bright ingredients and crisp beverages that balance its richness.

Best pairings:

White wines: Pinot Grigio, Vermentino, or Falanghina.
Rosé wines: Dry, light-bodied rosés from southern Italy.
Sparkling wines: Prosecco or Franciacorta for a refreshing contrast.
Accompaniments: Olive oil, roasted cherry tomatoes, basil, and sea salt.
Fruits: Figs, peaches, or strawberries for a sweet touch.

These pairings highlight Burrata’s gentle sweetness and creamy depth.

🌿 Craftsmanship and Tradition

True Burrata is still handmade in small dairies across Puglia.
Each step — from stretching the mozzarella to filling it with cream — requires precision and care.

The cheese’s success lies in its simplicity and timing:
fresh milk, expert hands, and immediate enjoyment.
Modern dairies across Italy and abroad now produce Burrata, but the finest examples still come from its homeland in Andria and Bari.

❤️ Final Thoughts

Burrata is more than a cheese — it’s a moment of pure pleasure.
Its silky outer layer and decadent core remind us that the simplest ingredients can create the most profound experiences.

Whether placed atop ripe tomatoes or served alone with olive oil, Burrata cheese captures the heart of Italian tradition — elegant, fresh, and utterly irresistible.

🧀 Burrata — Italy’s creamy jewel, born of milk, skill, and love.

Discover DeliciousPath recipes and bring Gourmet on Board to your boat! Choose your favorite category below and get inspired.