Mozzarella and burrata: a tale of two cheeses – which is right for your dish?

When it comes to Italian cheeses, mozzarella and burrata are two of the most beloved. Both are made from cow’s milk, but they have distinct flavors, textures, and uses. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the differences between mozzarella cheese vs burrata, exploring their unique characteristics and how to best enjoy each.

Appearance and Texture

Mozzarella cheese:

• White or ivory in color
• Smooth, elastic texture
• Can be shredded, sliced, or cubed

Burrata:

• White or slightly yellow in color
• Has a soft, creamy interior surrounded by a thin mozzarella shell
• The interior is often filled with cream and small pieces of mozzarella

Flavor

Mozzarella cheese:

• Mild, slightly tangy flavor
• Nutty and milky undertones

Burrata:

• Rich, buttery flavor
• Creamy and slightly sweet
• A hint of acidity balances the richness

Production

Mozzarella cheese:

• Made by stretching and kneading curd in hot water
• The stretching process gives mozzarella its characteristic elasticity

Burrata:

• Made by wrapping fresh mozzarella around a filling of cream and mozzarella scraps
• The filling is injected into the mozzarella shell using a special technique

Uses

Mozzarella cheese:

• Versatile cheese used in various dishes
• Can be used in pizza, pasta, salads, and sandwiches
• Can be shredded, sliced, or cubed for different applications

Burrata:

• Typically served fresh and uncooked
• Can be sliced and served on its own or paired with bread, vegetables, or fruit
• Often used as a topping for salads or pasta dishes

Nutritional Value

Mozzarella cheese:

• Good source of protein, calcium, and vitamin B12
• Lower in fat and calories compared to burrata

Burrata:

• Richer in fat and calories compared to mozzarella
• Contains a similar amount of protein and calcium

How to Choose the Right Cheese

The best choice between mozzarella cheese vs burrata depends on your personal preferences and the dish you’re preparing.

• If you’re looking for a versatile cheese that can be used in various dishes, mozzarella is a great option.
• If you prefer a rich, creamy cheese with a unique texture, burrata is an excellent choice.

Cooking with Mozzarella and Burrata

Mozzarella cheese:

• Can be used in both cooked and uncooked dishes
• Melts well, making it ideal for pizza, pasta, and grilled dishes
• Can be shredded, sliced, or cubed for different applications

Burrata:

• Typically served fresh and uncooked
• Can be sliced and served on its own or paired with bread, vegetables, or fruit
• Can be used as a topping for salads or pasta dishes

The Verdict: Mozzarella Cheese vs Burrata

Ultimately, the choice between mozzarella cheese vs burrata comes down to personal preference. Both cheeses offer unique flavors, textures, and uses. Mozzarella is a versatile cheese that can be used in various dishes, while burrata is a luxurious cheese best enjoyed fresh and uncooked.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Which cheese has a higher fat content, mozzarella or burrata?
A: Burrata has a higher fat content than mozzarella.

Q: Can I substitute mozzarella for burrata in recipes?
A: Mozzarella can be substituted for burrata in some recipes, but it will not have the same creamy texture or rich flavor.

Q: How should I store mozzarella and burrata?
A: Mozzarella and burrata should be stored in the refrigerator. Mozzarella can be stored for up to a week, while burrata should be consumed within a few days of purchase.

Q: What is the best way to serve burrata?
A: Burrata is typically served fresh and uncooked. It can be sliced and served on its own or paired with bread, vegetables, or fruit.

Q: Can I freeze mozzarella or burrata?
A: Mozzarella can be frozen for up to 2 months, but it may lose some of its elasticity. Burrata should not be frozen.