9 Best Substitute For Burrata Cheese
Burrata cheese, originating from the Puglia region of Italy, has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts globally. A testament to Italian dairy artistry, burrata effortlessly balances a firm outer mozzarella shell with a lusciously creamy core, reminiscent of fresh cream intertwined with stracciatella. This delicate interplay between textures and flavors elevates it from a mere cheese to an experience.
However, even the most ardent burrata aficionado may find themselves without this gem at a crucial culinary moment. Fear not, for there are several cheeses that, while distinct in their right, can confidently step into burrata’s shoes. This guide shines a spotlight on those commendable substitutes, detailing their unique characteristics and how they can seamlessly integrate into dishes that call for the creamy opulence of burrata. Whether you’re adapting out of necessity or curiosity, these alternatives ensure that your dish retains its intended charm and flavor.
What is Burrata Cheese?
Before we delve into the substitutes, it’s essential to understand the star of our show. Burrata cheese originates from the Puglia region of Italy. At first glance, it resembles a fresh mozzarella ball. But slice it open, and you’re in for a surprise—a creamy, buttery filling that spills out, embodying a texture akin to fresh cream and stracciatella cheese. This inner goodness is why burrata translates to “buttered” in Italian. It’s a cheese that has wooed many with its duality – a firm outer shell and a soft, creamy heart.
Quick View of Substitutes For Burrata Cheese
- Fresh Mozzarella
- Ricotta
- Mascarpone
- Cottage Cheese
- Brie
- Camembert
- Cream Cheese
- Stracciatella
- Feta
Best Substitutes For Burrata Cheese
In our culinary quest, sometimes we need to make do with what’s available. But making do doesn’t mean compromising on quality or taste. Let’s take an in-depth look at these worthy burrata stand-ins.
Fresh Mozzarella
Ah, the sibling of burrata! Fresh mozzarella, predominantly made from cow’s milk or buffalo milk, is a classic Italian cheese that has garnered worldwide adoration. Its soft, moist texture and slightly tangy note make it a favorite in salads and pizzas.
While mozzarella doesn’t have the creamy interior of burrata, it shares a strikingly similar outer layer. When melted, mozzarella exhibits a stretchy texture that can elevate many dishes. A pro tip? Drizzle some olive oil over fresh mozzarella, sprinkle some salt, and you’ve got yourself a close approximation of burrata’s rich taste.
Ricotta
Ricotta’s grainy texture and delicate flavor make it another suitable burrata alternative. Made from the whey left over from other cheeses, ricotta has a fluffy consistency that can mimic the creamy interior of burrata.
This cheese shines in Italian dishes, especially in pasta fillings or as a topping for toast. Mix it with some herbs, and you’ve got a spread that’s bursting with flavor. While it might lack the exact buttery depth of burrata, it’s a versatile cheese that has saved many a dish in a pinch.
Mascarpone
Often associated with desserts, mascarpone is a thick, creamy cheese originating from Italy. Its rich texture can be likened to that of burrata’s inner heart, albeit a tad denser.
Mascarpone’s sweet undertones make it a darling in tiramisu. However, when paired with savory ingredients, it can surprise you. Blend it with some garlic, salt, and herbs, and you’ve got a spread that can rival burrata in depth and flavor. Don’t let its dessert-association mislead you; mascarpone can hold its own in the savory world.
Cottage Cheese
This might raise some eyebrows, but cottage cheese, with its lumpy texture and mild flavor, can be a savior. The key lies in choosing a full-fat variant to mirror burrata’s richness.
Cottage cheese often finds its place in salads, lasagna, or even as a protein-packed snack. Mash it to achieve a smoother consistency, add some olive oil and herbs, and you’ll get a flavor profile that, while distinct, can serve as a refreshing change to burrata.
Brie
This French cheese, with its creamy interior and edible rind, is a decadence that can stand in for burrata. Brie’s buttery texture and earthy undertones give it a unique taste, making it a favorite in cheese platters.
Melt brie over some roasted vegetables or use it in a sandwich. Its rich, creamy texture will ooze out, reminiscent of burrata’s creamy heart.
Camembert
Another gem from France, camembert, shares similarities with brie but has a stronger, more pungent flavor. Its creamy consistency, especially when warmed, can give you a burrata-esque experience.
Camembert baked in the oven with some garlic and rosemary transforms into a gooey delight, perfect for dipping your crusty bread.
Cream Cheese
This spreadable cheese is not the first option that might come to mind, but its creamy consistency and mild flavor make it a potential substitute. Cream cheese works wonders in both savory and sweet dishes, showcasing its versatility.
Combine it with some herbs, a splash of cream, and you can create a dip that has a texture and richness not far from burrata.
Stracciatella
Ironically, stracciatella is the creamy heart of burrata. If you can find this cheese solo, pairing it with a firmer cheese like fresh mozzarella can give you a homemade burrata experience.
It’s creamy, stringy, and rich, capturing the essence of burrata to perfection. It’s a reminder that sometimes the answer lies within.
Feta
Last but not least, feta, with its crumbly texture and tangy note, can be a refreshing substitute. While it doesn’t have the creamy consistency of burrata, its robust flavor can add a unique twist to dishes.
Mash it, add some olive oil, and season it. The resulting mixture can be a delightful spread or topping, offering a Mediterranean twist to your dish.
Substitutes for Burrata Cheese: Nutritional Profile
| Cheese Type | Gluten | Calories (per ¼ cup) | Fat | Carbs | Fiber | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh Mozzarella | 0g | 80 | 6g | 1g | 0g | 7g |
| Ricotta | 0g | 100 | 8g | 2g | 0g | 6g |
| Mascarpone | 0g | 120 | 12g | 1g | 0g | 2g |
| Cottage Cheese | 0g | 55 | 1g | 2g | 0g | 12g |
| Brie | 0g | 95 | 8g | 0g | 0g | 6g |
| Camembert | 0g | 85 | 7g | 0g | 0g | 5g |
| Cream Cheese | 0g | 100 | 10g | 2g | 0g | 2g |
| Stracciatella | 0g | 90 | 7g | 1g | 0g | 7g |
| Feta | 0g | 100 | 8g | 2g | 0g | 4g |
Conclusion
Burrata, with its creaminess and unparalleled taste, has a place of reverence in the world of cheeses. However, the culinary world is vast, and several cheeses can step up to the plate in burrata’s absence. Whether you’re looking for a quick fix, an alternative flavor, or experimenting with something new, this guide offers a rich tapestry of choices. So, the next time you find your burrata stash dwindling, remember, the world of cheese is vast, and a delightful alternative is just around the corner.
